Thanjavur (Tanjore) Painting
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Splendors of India |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 1, 2017 |
| Denomination | Rs. 25 |
| Quantity | 150,000 |
| Perforation | 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Sankha Samanta Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3066 Yvert et Tellier IN 2772 Stanley Gibbons IN 3238 |
| Themes | Art | Culture | Greetings | New Year | Paintings |
The Radiant Art of South India
A Devotional Canvas of Gold and Grace
The Thanjavur (Tanjore) Painting is one of India’s most treasured classical art forms — a radiant blend of devotion, tradition, and craftsmanship. Originating in the 16th century under the patronage of the Nayakas of Thanjavur, this art flourished in the temple town of Tamil Nadu, embodying the region’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural essence. Every Thanjavur painting is a divine portrayal — a sacred vision brought to life with vivid colors and shimmering gold.
The Craftsmanship of Divine Detailing
A hallmark of Thanjavur art lies in its rich color palette, dense composition, and opulent surface work. Artists use a wooden plank as a base, upon which they apply layers of gesso (a paste of chalk powder and adhesive) to create raised relief work. Figures of gods and goddesses — such as Lord Krishna, Vishnu, Lakshmi, or Shiva — are then painted with natural pigments and embellished with 22-karat gold foil, glass beads, and semi-precious stones. This combination of painting and low-relief carving gives the artwork a striking three-dimensional effect, making each piece glow with spiritual radiance.
A Living Heritage of Tamil Nadu
Thanjavur paintings are more than visual art; they are expressions of devotion. Traditionally used as altar pieces in homes and temples, they continue to be revered for their auspicious beauty. Today, artisans in and around Thanjavur preserve this ancient craft, ensuring that its golden aura continues to illuminate modern spaces while staying rooted in centuries-old faith and technique.
Philatelic Tribute by India Post
In celebration of India’s magnificent artistic legacy, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative stamp depicting a Thanjavur painting as part of its New Year Mixed Sheetlet. The stamp captures the intricate relief work and rich luminosity that define this classical art form, paying tribute to the enduring devotion and artistry of South India’s master painters.
Where Art Meets Divinity
The Thanjavur Painting stands as a golden testament to India’s spiritual imagination — where every brushstroke tells a story of faith, and every embellishment reflects timeless craftsmanship. Through this philatelic tribute, India Post honors an art form that continues to bridge the sacred and the sublime.