Pichwai Art

History & Origin:

Pichwai art is a 400-year-old intricate painting style that originated in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. The term Pichwai comes from the Sanskrit words Pichh (back) and Wai (hanging), referring to large cloth paintings that serve as backdrops in Shrinathji temples. This art form developed as a means to narrate tales of Lord Krishna, specifically in his Shrinathji form, to devotees.

Historically, Pichwai paintings were exclusively created by temple artists for use in rituals, temple festivals, and seasonal decorations. These artworks were displayed behind the deity and changed as per different Hindu festivals like Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, and Annakut. Over time, as royal patrons and art lovers recognized their aesthetic and cultural value, Pichwai art transcended its religious origins and became a cherished form of Indian traditional painting.

Today, Pichwai paintings are not just seen in temples but have found their way into luxury homes, art galleries, and textile designs, adapting to contemporary decor needs while keeping the tradition alive. The Nathdwara School of Painting, where this art is still actively practiced, is considered the heart of authentic Pichwai craftsmanship.

How It Is Made:

Creating a Pichwai painting is an intricate and time-consuming process that involves multiple steps:

Surface Preparation – Traditionally, Pichwai paintings are done on handwoven cotton cloth or handmade paper. The fabric is soaked in water, starched, and dried to achieve the right texture.
Sketching – The artist first draws the basic outline of the painting using charcoal or natural pencil dyes.
Colour Blocking – Base colours are applied using natural mineral pigments, extracted from crushed stones, gold leaf, coal, and vegetable dyes.
Detailed Embellishments – Fine detailing is added using brushes made from squirrel hair, creating intricate patterns of jewellery, textiles, and divine expressions.
Final Highlights – Gold leaf and natural white chalk are used for final accents, giving the artwork a regal touch.

Each painting can take anywhere from one month to several years, depending on the complexity and detailing.

Materials Used:

Base Materials: Handmade cotton cloth, silk, or handmade paper
Pigments: Natural dyes from minerals and vegetables (red from flowers, yellow from turmeric, blue from indigo)
Gold & Silver Foil: For embellishments
Fine Brushes: Made from animal hair for precision detailing.

Unique Features:

Religious and Spiritual Themes – The primary subject of Pichwai art is Shrinathji, an incarnation of Lord Krishna, often depicted with cows, gopis (cowherd maidens), and lotus motifs.
Grand Scale & Intricate Detailing – Pichwai paintings are often massive (several feet in size), created with intricate floral, paisley, and ornamental detailing.
Use of Gold & Natural Colors – Unlike synthetic paintings, authentic Pichwai art uses natural dyes and real gold leaf, making them visually rich and durable.
Seasonal & Festive Variations – Different Pichwai artworks are designed for different occasions—monsoon-themed Pichwais show rainclouds, while Sharad Purnima ones depict moonlit nights.

Evolution into Contemporary Art – While traditional Pichwais were strictly temple backdrops, modern artists have adapted them into framed artworks, textiles, sarees, and home decor items.

Products:

With rising global interest, Pichwai art has diversified beyond temple use into several products:
Wall Art & Canvases – Framed Pichwai paintings for homes and hotels
Hand-Painted Sarees & Dupattas – Pichwai motifs on silk and handloom textiles
Home Decor – Cushion covers, curtains, and lampshades with Pichwai-inspired patterns
Jewelry & Accessories – Earrings, pendants, and handbags featuring Pichwai motifs
Luxury Stationery – Pichwai-themed greeting cards, notebooks, and diaries

Artisans in Nathdwara continue to keep this tradition alive, with authentic Pichwai paintings being sold through handicraft exhibitions, temple trusts, and curated online stores.