The Story
Pichwai—from the Sanskrit pich (back) and wai (hanging)—is a devotional painting tradition born in 17th-century Nathdwara, Rajasthan. The cloths were created to hang behind the idol of Shrinathji, a child form of Lord Krishna, and temple artists render his daily jhankis (sacred glimpses), seasonal festivals, lotus ponds, cows and gopis in mineral pigments, often heightened with gold. Each Pichwai is at once an act of worship and a feat of draughtsmanship passed down through generations of Nathdwara families. At its heart stands Shrinathji, the beloved child-Krishna of Nathdwara, surrounded by the devotion of his attendants and the abundance of nature.
About This Piece
This hand-painted Pichwai is the work of Nathdwara temple artists, built up in fine layers of colour and detail. A devotional centrepiece that brings the sanctity of the shrine into your own space.
Details
- Art form: Pichwai (Nathdwara, Rajasthan)
- Subject: Shrinathji / Krishna devotional
- Medium: Hand-painted on cloth
- Size: 2 × 3 ft
- Finish: Hand-painted, natural & mineral pigments
- Origin: Nathdwara, Rajasthan, India
- Care: Dust gently with a dry soft cloth; keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.