Dense Tree of Life Made of Birds and Fishes

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$180

The Tree of Life is one of the more popular motifs found in various art forms, across cultures and history. In its most iconic form, the Tree of Life is depicted by a single robust tree with many branches and segmented roots. The meaning can be interpreted as a symbol of energies and vitality. The tree can be seen as creation itself, growing and nurturing. At its most essential, the tree is a symbol of life, and its image is widely used all over the world as a celebration of life itself.

The focal point of this painting is the Tree of Life. What makes it stand out is that its leaves and branches are made completely by figures of birds and fishes. The fishes are typically depicted in Indian art as a significant animal. Its most notable form is Matsya, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, who saved Manu (the creator of mankind) from a deluge. Given this, it is natural to see the fish's symbolism as rebirth and life seamlessly tied to the imagery and meaning of the Tree in this artwork. Meanwhile, the bird-element in the painting can be seen seamlessly integrated into the large group of leaves all over the branches. At the bottom of the tree are other animals such as elephants, representing strength and power. This lively painting portrays how other life forms flock around the Tree of Life and how all things are united by that which gives life. The depiction showcases signature Madhubani art form that uses natural colors and detail-packed imagery that leaves no space in the canvas blank.

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Item Code:	DO50
Artist:	Bhola Mandal
Specifications:	Madhubani Painting on Hand Made Paper Folk Painting from the Village of Madhubani (Bihar) Artist: Bhola Mandal
Dimensions	28 inch x 20 inch

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100% Made in India

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Colors of Tradition: Exploring the Artistry Behind Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani painting is also known as Mithila art as it is practiced in the Mithila region of India and Nepal. It has specifically originated from the Madhubani district of the state of Bihar. Traditionally, the women of this region created these paintings and in recent years, it has become a widely practiced art and has now become renowned throughout the world. This art expresses the creativity and culture of the people of Mithila and is passed from one generation to another. In this way, the heritage of Madhubani art has been preserved for many decades. The subjects of these paintings are usually religion, love, and fertility. Sometimes, social events like festivals, weddings, and royal court are also depicted in the paintings. The most commonly painted designs and themes are the forms of Hindu Gods and Goddesses such as Ganesha, Shiva, Saraswati, Lakshmi, Krishna, and Ram. The characteristic features of Madhubani paintings are their vibrant colors and eye-catching geometrical patterns. The empty spaces are filled with traditional motifs such as floral and foliate patterns, animals, birds, geometrical structures, and other designs. The local artists create these paintings using a variety of items such as matchsticks, twigs, brushes, pens, or even their own fingers. The paints are usually made with natural dyes and pigments.
As simple as it may seem, the making process of the world-famous Madhubani paintings is certainly not easy and requires lots of hard labor.

Traditional Madhubani paintings are done either on cloth, handmade paper, or canvas. Select the medium of painting as per your choice. If you have chosen cloth, attach it to cardboard to make a solid base. The making of the painting begins with making a double-lined border. This is a very important step because the border is filled with various geographical shapes and patterns or other motifs. The average width of the border is 1.5 - 2 cm. Now that the border is created, you will be left with a blank middle space. This is the main workspace. Start drawing your choice of figure, designs, and shapes. These must be relevant to the Madhubani painting themes.

When the key design has been made, the empty spaces in between are filled with some designs.
Now is the time to color the painting using vivid shades and hues. Colors in Madhubani are sourced from nature; Indigo is used to produce blue, flower juice produces red, turmeric gives yellow, leaves produce green, cow dung mixed soot gives black, and rice powder gives white.

To paint these colors, the artist uses a bamboo stick and wraps cotton around it. This acts as a traditional brush.
The entire painting is now painted using this special brush with natural vibrant colors. · However, in modern times, the common brush is used and instead of natural colors, artists prefer to use acrylic paints.

Since the entire painting is made with natural materials and colors, it appears simple yet enriching. Originally, this art was created on mud walls or soil grounds but when it evolved over many years, the people of Madhubani started to make it on fabric and paper. Today, this art has become globalized and is receiving worldwide attention and appreciation.

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