Tanjore painting is a classical South Indian painting style, originating in the town of Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore in Tamil Nadu. It is distinguished by its famous gold coating.

Tanjore paintings are characterised by rich and vivid colours, simple iconic composition, glittering gold foils overlaid on delicate but extensive gesso work and inlay of glass beads and pieces or very rarely precious and semi-precious gems. This ancient and antique art form is considered divine in its approach, as most paintings portray Hindu mythological Gods and Goddesses adorned with shiny ornaments and filled with rich, vibrant colors.

Some features of the Unique Tanjore Paintings are:

• Wooden Plank
• Rich and vivid colors
• Glittering gold foil
• Precious and Semi-precious stones
• Intricate Work with Precision

Tanjore paintings continue to be made even to the present day, though not with the rigour and virtuosity that marked the paintings of yore. The materials used have also changed according to the cost, ease of availability and the choice of individual artists. Plywood, for example has by and large replaced Jack and teak wood. Synthetic colours and adhesives are preferred over the natural and mineral colours and other traditional components. Muck powder, a fine powder of chalk, is also used to create a 3D effect in the paintings.

In addition to the traditional subjects, a wide range of popular and modern subjects and themes are being depicted in Tanjore paintings. In modern times, these paintings have become souvenirs for festive occasions in South India.