Madhubani paintings originated in the Mithila region of Bihar, India and Nepal. The name "Madhubani" means "forest of honey". The art form is believed to have originated during the time of the Ramayana, when King Janaka commissioned artists to create paintings to celebrate the marriage of his daughter Sita to Lord Rama.
Technique and Materials
Madhubani artists use natural pigments derived from plants, flowers and minerals to create the art on clothes or handmade paper. Traditionally they hand-painted the designs using bamboo sticks or twigs; however, brushes are generally in use these days. The making of the painting begins with a double-lined border. The average width of the border is 1.5 - 2 cm. The common motifs used in the composition include geometric shapes, floral designs, peacocks, fish, elephants, and scenes from Hindu epics. Each motif carries its own symbolism. Peacocks represent love, prosperity and beauty. The lotus flower represents purity and divinity. Elephants represent strength and wisdom whereas fish represent fertility and good fortune.
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