Elephant in Rhythm – Madhubani Painting

Provenance

Madhubani painting, also known as Mithila painting, originates from the ancient Mithila region of Bihar and is traditionally practiced as ceremonial folk art embedded in ritual life. Its cultural origin is associated with the Treta Yuga, when King Janaka is believed to have commissioned artists to decorate Mithila during the wedding of Sita and Lord Rama, establishing the tradition of sacred wall painting as blessing, protection, and celebration.

This composition draws from the Kachani style of Madhubani, characterized by fine linework and intricate detailing created primarily through monochromatic or minimal colour infill. The elephant, central to the composition, is revered in Indian tradition as a symbol of strength, wisdom, stability, and auspiciousness. Within the Madhubani vocabulary, elephants often represent prosperity, protection, and harmonious coexistence with nature.

Surrounded by rhythmic floral and geometric motifs, the elephant becomes part of a dense ornamental field — reflecting the Madhubani principle that no surface remains empty or without meaning. Executed on paper using organic and water-based pigments, and following the non-rubbing tradition, the painting preserves ritual sanctity and disciplined craftsmanship.

Recognised under Geographical Indication (GI Application No. 37) and awarded GI status in 2006–2007 as the 30th registered GI product of India, Madhubani painting remains protected in its regional authenticity. This artwork is painted by Shri Pushkar Jha, Chief Artisan, GI Panchayat Mithila, sustaining generational knowledge within the GI framework.

Disclaimer: 

• The frames shown are for display purposes only and are not included with the artwork.
• As these are made-to-order designer pieces, expect minor colour variations from the displayed artwork.