The Art of Home Decor: Why you should embrace Pichwai Art

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By Arushi Mishra

  • Home Décor
  • Home Styling
  • Art
  • Painting

    • Table of Content

    Pichwai Paintings are a traditional artform originating from the Nathdwara region of Rajasthan. A 400-year old traditional artform, this style was discovered as a way of paying homage, respect and worshipping the revered Lord Shrinathji – a 7-year-old form of Lord Krishna. 

    The word Pichwai translates to ‘coming from the back’, as it was typically used as a background painting to the idol of Lord Shrinathji. These helped in setting the scene depicted by devotees according to every season and festival of the year. The Kamal Talai (Pond of Lotus) is one such popular Pichwai painting that was used to depict the monsoon season with the idol of Lord Shrinathji in front of it – depicting Lord Shrinathji enjoying with a rich ambience of vibrant lotus flowers and other greenery surrounding him. 

     

    Kamal Talai Pichwai Painting by Dinesh Soni

     

    Apart from this, various other motifs, such as cows, gopis (milkmaids), and flute are used, since these relate to the life of  Lord Shrinathji. 

    With the advent of Modern times, Pichwai art has occupied its own niche of aesthetic beauty that is well-recognised and demanded by many. These paintings are being increasingly used to adorn the walls of people’s living spaces, bedrooms, entryways, hallways, galleries and many more. 

    The vibrant and aesthetic colour palette with elegant details and bold outlines, make Pichwai art a much sought after traditional Indian artform. In this article we tell you in detail how to style your homes with the help of Pichwai art. 

    What Makes Pichwai Paintings Special

    Cultural and Spiritual Significance

     

     

     

    Shrinath Ji in Pichwai by Shezaad Ali Sherani

     

    Pichwai paintings have long become a sign of Rajasthani culture and tradition. From the quintessential paintings of Shrinathji, to the various motifs that are often used in this art form – lotus, peacocks, cows, flute, gopis (milkmaids), gods and goddesses and various other natural elements; these have earned a special recognition for themselves. 

    Rooted in Indian culture, these paintings are a beautiful ode to the worship of Lord Krishna manifested as a seven-year-old – Shrinathji. While earlier worship of the deity was confined to the havelis, the advent of these Pichwai paintings promoted the worship of Shrinathji from the comforts of their homes. This also creates a spiritual connection between the devotees and this art form. Each traditional Pichwai painting describes scenes from the life of Lord Krishna, helping people connect to the art and the God on a deeper level. 

    Conversation Starter 

     

    Lotus Symphony: Shreenath Ji, Pichwai by Shehzaad Ali Sherani

     

    Pichwai paintings are a perfect way to break the ice and mingle with your family, friends and guests. With their mesmerising and striking visual quality, they make for a perfect conversation starter with their rich history and tradition. 

    Often created using real gold and silver along with natural colours, their rare and exclusive appeal can create opportunities for indulging in engrossing conversations where it would promote the art and also raise awareness for the need to preserve it further. 

    These could thus be a gateway to the rich art, culture and history of the region and their greater role in enriching the colorful cultures of India. 

    Handcrafted Appeal

     

    Radha and Krishna in Pichwai by Shehzaad Ali Sherani

     

    An authentic piece of Pichwai painting is intricately hand-painted. The beautiful and meaningful details are carefully done on cloth by skilled artists who have passed on this art from one generation to another. Due to this, every scene from the life of Lord Krishna such as – Raas Leela (scenes of Krishna and the Gopis),  Janmashtami (the celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna), Sharad Purnima (celebration of the full moon), and Annakoot ( also known as Govardhan Puja); are painted in unique ways. This sets every Pichwai apart from each other. 

    Vibrant Colour Aesthetics

     

    8” Brown Half Cow Pichwai Decor Plate 

     

    Traditionally, Pichwai paintings are made from naturally derived colours, which adds all the more to what sets them apart. The use of these colours help in creating mesmerising pieces of art which incorporate vibrant colours and create stunning colour patterns. 

    The rich hues add a touch of regality and sophistication to the paintings, making for a perfect piece of art to adorn the walls of your living room.

    Using Pichwai Paintings in Home Decor

    Apart from its usual use as temple art, Pichwai paintings can also be used in various settings. They can be used as statement pieces for entrances, serene art works for the cozy bedrooms and as art corners across your living space. 

    Statement Wall Art Piece 

     

    Sacred Encounters: Transcendent Majesty, Pichwai by Shehzaad ali Sherani 

     

    Pichwai paintings can be made in every size, however it can be used in a large size to become the focal point of your living room or any other space you might expect your guests to spend their time. 

    Its rich colours and spectacular details can tie in the interiors of your home together, creating a luxurious and imposing piece of art. 

    Art Corner Installation

     

    Gopala Leela: Lords Shrinath’s Playful Cattle, Pichwai Painting by Dinesh Soni 

     

    If you are someone with an interest in art and appreciate the various types of art forms, you could invest in an art corner. A great addition to which could be a few rich miniature Pichwai paintings. 

    Due to its sophisticated colour palette and intricate depiction of the scenes from the life of Lord Shrinathji, Pichwai paintings are extremely versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of interiors. Whether you want to match it with modern interiors and furniture of your homes or traditionally Indian interiors, Pichwai paintings are a great choice for it. 

    Decorating Your Bedroom 

     

    Peacock on the Terrace Contemporary Pichwai by Shehzaad Ali Sherani 

     

    Amongst the various placements of Pichwai paintings, contemporary Pichwai can be used to adorn the decor in your bedrooms specifically. These make for beautiful headboards instead of your conventional ones. These headboards make for serene and soothing interiors with their soothing traditional designs and colours. 

    Alternatively, miniature Pichwai paintings can be used on either sides of your nightstands in your bedrooms. These can provide a calming atmosphere in your bedroom for you to relax. 

    Choose the Right Pichwai: 

    Check the Authenticity

     

    Lord Krishna Worshipped by Gopis in Pichwai by Naveen Soni 

     

    While looking to buy Pichwai paintings, it is essential to make sure that you are buying an authentic piece of Pichwai. This would help in encouraging the creative community of Pichwai artists to further invest in this skill and make it even more popular. 

    Many cheap prints of these paintings are available in the market today, however, it is important to take steps to buy a genuine piece of Pichwai painting. This not only helps in encouraging the artists but also helps in nudging them into earning a well-deserved recognition. 

    You can read how to check the authenticity of your Pichwai paintings here. 

    Colour Coordination

     

    Shrinathji Gopasthami in Pichwai by Naveen Soni

     

    It is important to incorporate Pichwai paintings in your home spaces in such a way that it flatters the interiors of your homes. Many minimalistic and modern living spaces compliment a well-made Pichwai painting. They help in adding a special quality and character to your urban spaces. Its vibrant colours can go very well with some earthy tones in your home space coupled with lush plants and flowers. 

    Consider Scale and Proportion

    With a plethora of Pichwai paintings available in the market, it is helpful to be mindful of the size and scale of the painting that could go well with your home’s decor. Keeping in mind the size of the room and the wall where you want a Pichwai artwork installed can add a quality of uniqueness and awe within the interiors of your home. For the entryway and drawing rooms, you can opt for a huge Pichwai with intricate details. While for a chic and modern look, you can look at some contemporary Pichwai options. Placement of the artworks can thus make for a visually striking corner in your living spaces.

     

    Celestial Companions: Domestic Beauty by Shehzaad Ali Sherani

     

    Sharad Poornima Pichwai by Shehzaad Ali Sherani

     

    References 

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