Description

The central theme on this painting is Lord Krishna. The painting starts from the outer edge depicting 12 scenes from Krishna's life. These include how as an infant, he is carried in a basket and put in a river, and how as a young lad he hides the bathing maiden's clothes on a tree. These scenes converge to the central frame of the eternal lovers Radha and Krishna.

History

One of the most ancient crafts of the world, etching and painting on the palm leaf still thrives in the state of Orissa in India. The art originated when written communication began. Messages and manuscripts were written on the palm leaf to be disseminated. Gradually the trend to decorate the text with images began and it became an art in itself.

Skills

The skill and dexterity of the painter is in putting together so much fine details in so compact a manner. He must be highly skilled in fine etching to make the little circular flaps come alive with pictorial details of Krishna's life and exploits. This art form also calls for a high degree of hand-eye coordination. This size of painting takes about 7-10 days to make.

Aesthetics

The 12 circular cameos which flip outward are an outstanding feature of this piece, apart from and the exquisite floral inalys and borders. The other notable thing is how, in such small circular frames, so much is conveyed in terms of the story and the theme. The entire piece is composed of 12 palm leaves sewn together, and so it can be folded along those lines to become a compact portable piece.

Material

A palm leaf painting formed by stitching 12 palm leaves together and then etching fine designs on it using an iron stylus. This palm leaf painting is waterproof and the color is nearly permanent since ink is filled in the grooves created by etching.

Care

Protect from dust and moisture.