The striking Thanjavur paintings immediately capture the attention of viewers while imparting the divine magnificence and brilliance of the artwork. These paintings are traditionally made on paper or cloth which is first placed on wooden panels. Bright and natural colours are applied in bold tones. To create a three-dimensional effect, gold foil is applied over the embossed surfaces. A characteristic feature of these paintings is the placement of the main deity at the center of the artwork, while ornate arches and decorative motifs are made in the surroundings. These paintings are highly durable and richly textured.
The Thanjavur painting tradition gained prominence during the Maratha rule of Thanjavur (1676 - 1855) with the patronage of the rulers. Artists began to make highly detailed and symbolic depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Historically, these paintings played an important role in the religious and social life of the people. These paintings were mainly found in Temple sanctums, interiors of palaces, ceremonial halls, and during religious ceremonies.
This particular Thanjavur-style painting depicts a confrontation between Lord Rama and Ravana through detailed symmetry. Lord Rama is seen mounted on Hanuman's shoulders confronting Ravana. In the ground, a monkey warrior is seen fighting a Rakshasa. Ravana, depicted in bright blue hue with multiple arms occupies a central space in the artwork. His multiple faces and arms symbolize his omnipotence. In contrast with crowded battle scenes, the large empty sky in this painting creates a visual isolation around the divine figures, which makes the confrontation feel divine rather than chaotic. The dearth of weapons and soldiers provides a sort of clarity in every gesture. The figures are outlined with sharp ornamental precision which is typical of Thanjavur paintings. The jewelry, crowns, bows, and weapons are depicted as highly decorated and detailed like sacred objects and not tools of warfare. Lastly, this painting seems to depict the confrontation as a cosmic or divine order instead of a violent attack.
This painting depicts the battle scene from the legendary Hindu epic, Ramayana where Lord Ram along with Hanuman defeats Ravana, the demon king of Lanka (present day Sri Lanka). On the left stands multi-headed and multi-armed Ravana symbolizing supernatural strength, omnipresence, and mastery in warfare. Each arm holds a weapon or draws a bow making the character appear invincible and larger than human. Opposing this figure on the right is Lord Ram mounted on Hanuman, poised with a drawn bow, ready for combat. Below him, another monkey warrior wrestles a dark-skinned opponent on the ground making the scene intense and chaotic. The painting uses strong primary colors- blue for fearsome intensity, green for righteousness and gold to indicate royalty and divine status. The painting conveys tension, heroism, and cosmic conflict between opposing forces.
