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Sita Haran - Abduction of Sita

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$155.25

$207

25% off

Includes any tariffs and taxes

This item can be backordered

Time required to recreate this artwork

6 to 8 weeks

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$31.05 (20%)

Balance to be paid once product is ready

$124.20

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Specifications

	PC40
	Orissa's Paata Painting Water Color on Tussar Silk
	1.5 ft X 0.9 ft

Delivery and Return Policies


	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Timeless Depiction of a Pivotal Epic Moment

This exquisite Pattachitra painting captures a scene of profound significance from the epic Ramayana, an ancient Indian narrative revered for its moral and spiritual teachings. Rendered in the vibrant folk art tradition of Orissa, this artwork transports the viewer to a critical juncture in the celestial drama: the abduction of Sita. The scene unfolds with a dramatic intensity, showcasing the formidable presence of Ravana, the ten-headed demon king, as he carries away Sita, the virtuous consort of Lord Rama. The artists, using traditional techniques passed down through generations, have brought this iconic moment to life on tussar silk, a medium that lends a unique texture and depth to the narrative.

The Artistry of Pattachitra

Pattachitra, meaning "picture on cloth," is a traditional art form originating from the state of Odisha in India. Its roots are deeply entwilled with religious and mythological themes, often depicting deities, epics, and folk tales. The artisans meticulously prepare a canvas by applying layers of natural adhesive and chalk powder, creating a smooth surface for their watercolors. This particular painting exemplifies the distinctive style of Pattachitra, characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, intricate details, and a masterful use of storytelling. The swirling clouds and stylized flora in the background are characteristic elements that enhance the visual narrative and create a sense of movement and atmosphere.

The Narrative Unveiled

The painting vividly portrays Ravana, a powerful rakshasa, with his multiple heads and arms, symbolizing his immense strength and divine lineage. His determined grip on Sita signifies his audacious act of defiance against the divine order. Sita, depicted with a pensive yet resilient expression, embodies grace and unwavering devotion even in the face of adversity. The presence of the magnificent golden swan-like creatures that seem to be pulling their chariot further adds to the mythological grandeur of the scene, hinting at a supernatural mode of transport used during this pivotal event. The rich hues of ochre, saffron, and emerald green, characteristic of Pattachitra, are skillfully employed to highlight the dramatic tension and emotional depth of the narrative. This artwork is not merely a visual representation but a powerful conduit to the timeless tales of dharma, duty, and the enduring strength of virtue.

Mastering the Ancient Technique: Exploring the Meticulous Creation of Pattachitra Paintings

The traditional Pattachitra is a scroll painting that is done on cloth. This is revealed in the name; Pattachitra is a Sanskrit term made from two words i.e. Patta meaning cloth and Chitra meaning picture. The main subject of this painting is portraying Hindu mythological narratives, scenes from religious texts, and folktales. Pattachitra paintings are especially practiced in eastern Indian states such as West Bengal and Odisha, and also in some parts of Bangladesh. This art form is closely related to Shri Jagannath and the tradition of the Vaishnava sect. It is believed that Pattachitra art originated in the 11th century and the people of Odisha practice it even today without any discrepancy. Bengalis use these scroll paintings for ritual purposes (as a visual device) during the performance of a song or Aarti.

Pattachitra paintings are characterized by creative and traditional motifs/designs, decorative borders, and bright colorful applications. The outline of the figure and motifs are bold and sharp. Some common shapes and motifs seen in these paintings are trees, flowers, leaves, elephants, and other creatures. The artists of Odisha and Bengal still use the traditional method of painting which gives a unique look to it altogether.

1. Canvas is prepared

The process of painting a Pattachitra begins by preparing the canvas (patta). Generally, cotton cloth is used for making the canvas. The local artists dip the cotton cloth in a mixture of tamarind seeds and water for a few days. The cloth is then taken out and dried in the sun. Now natural gum is applied over it to stick another layer of cotton cloth on it. Thus a thick layer of cotton cloth is formed. This layered cotton is sun-dried and a paste of chalk powder, tamarind, and gum is applied on both sides. The surface of the cloth is then rubbed with two different stones for smoothening and it is again dried. This process gives the cloth a leathery finish and it is now ready to be painted.

2. Natural colors are made using traditional method

The painters prepare and use vegetable and mineral colors for application in the painting. White color is made from conch shells, black is made by burning coconut shells, Hingula is used for red color, Ramaraja for blue, and Haritala for yellow.

3. Colors are filled in

The artist now makes a double-lined border on all four sides of the canvas. The local artists are so expert in painting that they do not draw figures and motifs with pencil but directly draw them with a brush. The paint brushes that the painters use are made of the hair of domestic animals, a bunch of which is tied to the end of a bamboo stick. The figures are now painted with natural colors using the indigenous brushes. The outline is thickened with black color.

4. Painting is given a finishing

Finally, the painting is varnished/glazed to protect it from any damage and to get a glossy shine on the surface.

The making of a Pattachitra is laborious work and therefore, one painting may sometimes take over a month to complete. Due to their classical look, these paintings are admired by people from all over the world. The artistic skills used in Pattachitra are passed down from one generation to another and thus are preserved to date.