Divine Deities: Hand-Painted Tanjore Collection

Honoring Sacred Tradition

In our Basavanagudi studio, bringing a deity to life is a Sadhana (spiritual practice), not just a painting job. Whether it is the fierce warrior energy of Lord Murugan or the serene household balance of the Shiva Parivar, we follow the 400-year-old Shilpa Shastra methods passed down from my grandmother.

The Making of a Deity

• Foundation: We start with high-quality jackfruit wood or plywood, treated with natural limestone gesso to ensure the base lasts for generations.
• High-Relief Work: We create the raised designs using traditional Sudha (a mixture of limestone and gum), never synthetic fillers. This gives the painting its distinct, tactile depth.
• Authentic Gold: We exclusively use genuine 24K gold foil. You will see the luster on the Prabhavali (arch) and the deity's jewelry. It catches the light differently than gold paint, offering a warmth that only real gold provides.
• Detailing: The final stage is hand-painting with watercolours. The eyes are always painted last—the moment they open, the deity is considered 'awake.'

FAQ: Bringing Divine Art Home

Can I commission a specific deity not listed? Yes. While we keep a collection of ready-to-hang pieces at the studio, most of our work is commissioned. We plan the iconography, dimensions, and color palettes together to ensure it fits perfectly in your pooja room.

How do I care for these paintings? These are heirlooms. Keep them away from direct moisture, and if you need to dust them, use a soft, dry brush. The high-quality glass or acrylic frames provided ensure they stay protected for years.