Richly detailed devotional paintings from Nathdwara, depicting Shrinathji, sacred rituals, and the changing imagery through vibrant imagery.
Born in the temple town of Nathdwara, Pichwai is a tradition of devotional painting created on cloth for Shrinathji, the child form of Krishna. Hung behind the deity, it transforms the space around him, with its imagery changing through the seasons, festivals and rituals of the temple calendar. Painted by hand with extraordinary detail and patience, each Pichwai is both an act of devotion and a remarkable work of art.
The name is literal: pichh, behind; wai, hanging. For over four hundred years the painters of Nathdwara have made these temple backdrops — a new scene for each season and festival in Shrinathji’s year.
Painted on starched cotton with fine brushes and mineral pigments, traditionally with real gold. Each Pichwai can take weeks to complete, with cows, lotus ponds, gopis and festival scenes rendered in intricate detail.
More than a painting, a Pichwai is an act of devotion, bringing the divine into view and giving form to the sacred rhythms of the year.
Pichwai has travelled from the temple into homes and galleries. Contemporary artists reinterpret its lotuses, cows and lush greens for modern rooms, while the Nathdwara workshops keep the classical form alive.
Pichwai paintings currently with us. Tap any work to view it larger and enquire.
