9" Watercolor Artwork of Yali | Framed Ganjifa Painting

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Guardians of Sacred Spaces: Yali in Art

Delve into the captivating world of mythical creatures with this striking artwork, presented as a framed watercolour painting. The painting features the Yali, a majestic creature prominent in Hindu mythology and architecture, rendered in the style reminiscent of the age-old art of Ganjifa cards. The vibrant colors and intricate details are carefully executed in watercolour on paper, bringing this mythical guardian to life. The square format, measuring 9 inches by 9 inches, makes it a perfectly sized addition to any space, be it a home, office or meditation room.

A Tapestry of Folk Art and Mythology

This piece is not merely a painting, it is a window into a rich tapestry of South Indian culture. The Yali is often depicted as a composite creature, having the body of a lion, the tusk of an elephant, and sometimes, even the features of a horse. These features combined, show a creature of immense power, strength, and protectiveness. In temples of South India, the Yali can be found guarding entrances, pillars and thresholds, acting as vigilant protectors against evil forces. Often depicted with a fierce expression, they serve as a potent symbol of courage and righteousness, warding off negativity and ensuring the sanctity of the sacred space. In this artwork, the Yali is seated in profile, and its form is framed by vibrant concentric circles of red, white and green, set against a dark backdrop.

Ganjifa: A Royal Game of Art

This painting echoes the style and aesthetic of Ganjifa cards, a traditional Indian playing card game with roots stretching back centuries. Ganjifa originated in Persia, was adopted and beautifully transformed by the Mughal emperors, and later localized by regional kingdoms across India. These cards, traditionally circular in shape, are miniature works of art themselves, featuring intricate paintings depicting mythological figures, royal symbols, and scenes from epics. This watercolour representation captures the spirit of Ganjifa, showcasing the delicate brushstrokes, the rich colour palette, and the storytelling essence that are characteristic of this ancient art form. The artwork is presented in a tasteful frame, ready to be displayed and admired. This frame has an inner border of shining gold colour that showcases the work inside. The outer portion is a dark, rich brown in colour, which accentuates and highlights the inner portion of the piece. The artwork measures 9 inches in height, 9 inches in width, and has a depth of 0.5 inches. This ensures it is compact, yet creates a big impact. Invite this guardian into your space, and let its powerful presence fill your surroundings with courage and positive energy.