Tanjore painting, also known as Thanjavur painting, is a traditional South Indian art form known for its rich colors, raised gold work, and divine themes. The true beauty and value of this sacred art depend entirely on the quality and authenticity of the Tanjore Painting Materials used.
At Bavin Tanjore Paintings, every artwork is created using time-tested traditional materials, ensuring originality, durability, and spiritual richness. In this blog, we explain all the essential Tanjore Painting Materials used in authentic handmade paintings and why they matter.
Why Tanjore Painting Materials Are Important
Authentic Tanjore Painting Materials give the artwork:
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Long life (often 50–100 years or more)
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Natural shine that never fades
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Distinct embossed 3D effect
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Spiritual and cultural value
Cheap substitutes like printed boards, plastic sheets, or fake gold may look attractive initially but lose value quickly. At Bavin Tanjore Paintings, we strictly avoid shortcuts and follow traditional methods.
Base Materials Used in Authentic Tanjore Paintings
1. Wooden Board (Strong Foundation)
Every original Tanjore painting begins with a solid wooden base. Traditionally, seasoned wood or high-quality plywood is used.
Why it matters:
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Prevents bending and cracking
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Supports heavy gold and stone work
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Increases lifespan of the painting
A strong base is one of the most important Tanjore Painting Materials used at Bavin Tanjore Paintings.
2. Cotton Cloth Layer
A thin cotton cloth is carefully pasted over the wooden board using natural adhesive.
Purpose:
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Creates a smooth painting surface
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Prevents paint absorption into wood
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Improves durability
This step is essential in traditional Tanjore Painting Materials preparation.
Materials Used for Embossed (3D) Work
3. Chalk Powder and Arabic Gum (Gesso Work)
The raised effect seen in jewellery, crowns, and arches is created using a handmade paste of chalk powder and Arabic gum.
Benefits:
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Creates signature 3D appearance
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Enhances depth and richness
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Lasts for decades without cracking
This embossing paste is a defining element of original Tanjore Painting Materials.
4. Limestone Paste (Traditional Method)
Some traditional artists still use limestone paste, which is extremely strong and long-lasting. At Bavin Tanjore Paintings, this method is used for premium custom artworks.
Gold and Decorative Materials
5. Pure 22-Carat Gold Foil
Real gold foil is the soul of a genuine Tanjore painting. Only 22K gold foil is used in authentic artworks.
Why real gold is important:
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Never fades or turns black
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Reflects divine brilliance
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Increases artistic and monetary value
At Bavin Tanjore Paintings, we use only original gold foil—never artificial substitutes.
Among all Tanjore Painting Materials, gold foil is the most sacred and valuable.
6. Semi-Precious Stones and Beads
Hand-placed stones and beads are embedded into the embossed areas.
Purpose:
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Enhances royal appearance
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Adds richness and detailing
Original Tanjore Painting Materials always involve hand placement, not machine fixing.
Painting Colors and Tools
7. High-Quality Poster Colors
Traditionally, natural pigments were used. Today, artists use premium poster colors that are long-lasting and vibrant.
Common colors:
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Red, green, blue, white
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Natural skin tones and earth shades
Color quality plays a major role in the authenticity of Tanjore Painting Materials.
8. Fine Detailing Brushes
Soft, fine brushes are used for facial expressions, eyes, and ornaments.
Why it matters:
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Brings life to deity faces
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Ensures smooth detailing
Adhesives and Binding Materials
9. Arabic Gum (Natural Adhesive)
Arabic gum is used to:
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Paste cloth on wood
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Fix gold foil
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Secure stones
It is natural, durable, and safe for gold—making it one of the most important Tanjore Painting Materials.
Finishing and Protection
10. Mild Protective Coating (Optional)
Some paintings receive a light protective finish to guard against dust and humidity. At Bavin Tanjore Paintings, this is done only when necessary, without affecting tradition.
How to Identify Original Tanjore Painting Materials
Before buying, check:
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Raised embossing you can feel
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Real gold shine (not dull yellow)
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Solid wooden base
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Hand-painted details
All artworks from Bavin Tanjore Paintings are created using authentic Tanjore Painting Materials, ensuring originality and long-term value.
Why Choose Bavin Tanjore Paintings
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Handmade by experienced traditional artists
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Authentic materials only
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No printed or machine-made work
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Custom deity paintings available
With decades of artistic knowledge, Bavin Tanjore Paintings preserves the true spirit of this sacred art form.
Conclusion
The timeless beauty of Tanjore art lies in its materials. From wooden boards and cotton cloth to pure gold foil and natural adhesives, every element plays a vital role. Understanding Tanjore Painting Materials helps you identify original artwork and appreciate its spiritual and cultural depth.
When you choose Bavin Tanjore Paintings, you are not just buying art—you are preserving heritage.