The Navagraha Series: Celestial Art Reimagined
A sacred collection of nine celestial bodies, each hand-painted on restored vintage teak clock frames to honor Vedic astrology.
The complete Navagraha set, installed as a magnificent wall feature. This collection of nine hand-painted artworks on restored clock frames represents a journey through Vedic cosmology, created in close collaboration with my client.
A glimpse into the process and final presentation of the Surya (Sun) frame. The video captures the vibrant colors and intricate details that honor the deity, who is the remover of darkness and the core of our being.
A beautifully staged shot of the Surya frame, surrounded by offerings of lotus flowers and diyas. The artwork depicts Surya's chariot drawn by seven horses, symbolizing the seven meters of the Vedas, all hand-painted on the restored frame.
The completed Surya (Sun) frame, a hand-painted homage on a restored vintage clock frame. The artwork is rich with Vedic symbolism, featuring honey-colored eyes, a royal chariot, and lotus flowers, all framed within a vintage Prabhavali.
The Chandra (Moon) frame, set amidst a serene arrangement of silver and jasmine. The painting on the frame depicts the waxing and waning phases of the moon, reflecting its fickle and ever-shifting nature as described in Vedic texts.
This video showcases the Chandra (Moon) frame, capturing the tranquil and feminine energy of the deity. The artwork, inspired by Krishna as the moon incarnate, is set against a backdrop of offerings that honor this celestial body.
A full view of the hand-painted Chandra frame. The artwork features antelopes, Chandra's celestial mount, and the phases of the moon, all encircling a vintage Prabhavali. The piece is born from the story of the Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the milky ocean.
A close-up detail of the Mangal (Mars) frame, showing the hand-painted ram, the deity's mount. The fiery colors and powerful imagery reflect the war-like energy and strength associated with this planet.
The complete Mangal (Mars) frame, a tribute to the fiery red planet. The artwork incorporates symbols of leadership and power, such as the mace and spear, with Lord Narsingh incarnated from Mangal at its heart.
The Mangal frame styled with offerings of red flowers and fruits. The entire composition, from the hand-painted motifs to the central deity, is designed to evoke the fierce and determined spirit of Mars.
About The Navagraha Series: Celestial Art Reimagined
Creating this series was a deep dive into the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, ensuring every detail from the vahana (mount) to the color palette honors the ancient texts. Because I use salvaged 16-inch teak clock frames, no two pieces are identical, and I source vintage brass Prabhavalis to serve as the structural heart of each celestial representation. This isn't just decor; it is an exercise in bringing Vedic cosmology into a living, modern space.
A Dialogue with Tradition
This project began with a specific client commission, but it evolved into an exploration of how we interact with divinity at home. My process starts with the hunt for authentic, aged teak frames. Once a frame is selected, it undergoes a meticulous restoration—chemically treated and sanded to retain the character of its past life before I apply a single stroke of paint.
Iconography and Meaning
Each frame is a marriage of Pattachitra-inspired detailing and traditional iconography. For example, the Surya (Sun) frame incorporates the seven horses representing the Vedic meters, while the Mangal (Mars) piece draws on fiery, assertive motifs to reflect the planet's strength. I use hand-mixed acrylics to ensure the hues—from the 'dark like millet' green of Mercury to the royal purples of the Sun—are vibrant yet grounded.
Why This Matters
I believe in 'scrap to story.' The brass Prabhavali at the center provides a ritualistic focal point, contrasting against the reclaimed wood and contemporary application. This project is a testament to the idea that heritage does not belong behind glass in a museum; it belongs on our walls, resonant and alive. Whether you are looking for a singular piece for your puja room or a full series, I work with you to understand the astrological or aesthetic significance you wish to capture, ensuring each piece feels like a sacred heirloom.
Chandan Dubey
I am a storyteller who finds new life in the forgotten. When I pick up a brush, I am not just painting; I am listening to the history of the object and the story it wants to tell next. Let’s collaborate to weave your own heritage into something you can live with every day.
Looking for specific vintage art?
You can search for other restored decor or heritage pieces I've worked on.
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