Pichvai (Pichwai) Paintings

Pichvai (Pichwai) Paintings, A Symbol of Cultural Importance

Pichvai ( Pichwai ) paintings, often called the ‘Art of God’ are Indian traditional paintings representing the rich art form which has quickly become popular amongst art collectors and art enthusiasts. Pichvai ( Pichwai ) art is a style of Indian traditional painting that originated nearly 400 years ago in the holy town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan and illustrates Indian tales, poetry, literature, and myths hand-painted on silk, muslin or paper.

This Indian traditional painting art form is the perfect example of ‘Guru-shishya’ tradition, the intricacies and detailing of the art have been passed down through the generations.Let’s rediscover the journey of these exquisite paintings from the walls of the temples into homes, studios, and galleries across the world.

What is the meaning of Pichwai ( Pichvai)?

Pichwai paintings are  also known as shrinathji pichwai painting. Pichwai is a Sanskrit word, wherein ‘Pich’ means back and ‘wais’ means hanging. Keeping in tune to its name meaning ‘hanging at the back’, Pichwai paintings were primarily used to decorate the backdrop for Lord Shrinathji idol (a form of Lord Krishna manifest as a seven-year-old child).

These are scrupulously detailed big-sized paintings done on fabric using dark, rich hues, are designed to create a devotional atmosphere for the joyous adoration of Lord Shrinathji and hence also known as shrinathji pichwai painting.

The Legend Behind Shrinathji of Nathdwara

Shrinathji, a form of Lord Krishna manifest as a seven-year-old child is a dominant figure in the world of pichvai ( pichwai ) art. According to the popular legend, Krishna as a child lifted the Govardhan Parvat on his little finger to save the villagers of Vrindavan from the thunderstorms and flood.

This episode of Krishna’s life is portrayed in Shrinathji’s posture with deity’s left hand raised while rest hand is bent to shower blessings.This posture of Shrinathiji is most frequently painted figure in these Indian traditional paintings while others mostly feature the leelas, tales and events in Lord Krishna’s life.

The technique of creating Pichvai ( Pichwai) paintings

Creating a Pichwai painting is an arduous task that can take several months. It involves the use of various pigments like metallic, organic, minerals and synthesized minerals. Pichwai paintings are full of intricate embroideries, gem work, and fine detailing. Also, these paintings are not created through regular easel and paintbrushes but rather involves intricately strokes by hand while sitting on the floor.

Firstly, the base material (Bhumibhand) is pasted on a plain surface and burnished for smoothness. Secondly, a sketch of the composition is done using either black or red ink. The natural stone colors are filled (Ranga Karma) using various dry and wet techniques. Lastly, a border or ‘hashiye’ is done of the painting.True colours are the essence of Pichwai art. Natural paints made from gold, coal, silver, indigo, zinc, saffron and other minerals are used for the artwork.

Artists grind the colours, take the dust and add tree gum to paint their piece.Unlike other art forms, there is no possibility of touch-up in these paintings owing to the because of their fine detailing. With no room for error, Pichwai art requires immense skill, experience and patience.

Every art form of painting, be it Worli, Shrinathji Pichwai (pichvai) paintings, Kalamkari, Kalighat Part art or Madhubani or Pattachitra ; all kinds have their own beauty , meaning, uniqueness and cultural importance that it is a sheer representation of. These paintings carry a heritage and cultural importance.

These paintings of love and happiness, created with utmost devotion by artists invoke joyous feelings and positive vibes. The important aspect is to not only preserve this Rajasthani Indian traditional painting art form but also to encourage its contemporary form in the current era.