This palm-leaf engraving depicts scenes from the raas-leela of Radha and Krishna. The centerpiece shows Radha and Krishna meeting under an ornamental archway. The central panels above and below show Lord Krishna among the gopis or milkmaids who are dancing to the music of his flute. Bordering them are representations of gods and some companions of the divine couple. Ornamental borders and panels are used to separate each engraving while a running outer border frames the whole scene beautifully.
The specially processed and dried palm leaf is first cut into the required size. Artists from Orissa then engrave the palm leaf with a special iron-stylo. After the illustration is engraved, Lamp Black or powdered Coal is applied on the palm leaf. The engraved portion thus gets filled and highlighted in black line illustrations. Care is taken to remove the excess coal black on the palm leaf.
This painting contains rows of circles and panels that highlight the main illustrations. Circular discs of palm leaf are stitched over each circle. Each disc has a βsemicircular flapβ which when lifted upwards or downwards forms another new illustration within each circle and panel. This is a novel technique used by the artists to depict as many scenes or episodes as possible to illustrate the mythological tale.
Maintenance: Clean with a soft, dry paint brush. Handle with care
Height: 35.5 cms (14'')
Width: 39.3 cms (15.5'')
Please Note: Actual size, design and color may vary slightly from that shown in the image above. |
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