Is Your 'Authentic' Mysore Painting a Gold-Plated Lie?

Can a single brushstroke hold the weight of centuries of tradition and the brilliance of pure gold? You might think you're buying a piece of history, but the reality behind Mysore Painting is far less romantic. Artisans, the true keepers of this heritage, struggle, while the market is flooded with cheap imitations.

Mysore Painting, a living legacy born from the Vijayanagara Empire (think Game of Thrones, but Indian royalty), flourished under Raja Wodeyar I. This art form evolved from temple murals to portable masterpieces, each piece representing centuries of skill.

The 'gesso work' is painstaking. Imagine prepping a wall multiple times, each layer requiring the smoothness of polished glass. Then, pure 24-carat gold leaf is applied with surgical precision - alchemy, not just art.

These artisans, families passing down skills through generations, pour their lives into their work, connecting with a rich history and spiritual heritage. Their joy lies in preserving this legacy, one brushstroke at a time, even as modest incomes and the rising cost of gold threaten their livelihood.

Young people are drawn to more stable professions. Government initiatives, workshops, and online platforms strive to bridge the gap between these masters and the world, offering a glimmer of hope. But the market must change, or this 500-year-old art form risks extinction.

When you see a 'Mysore Painting,' ask yourself: who benefited? The artisan, or a middleman? The future of this craft is in our hands. What are you willing to do to keep this tradition alive?

Share your thoughts at team@craftyug.com. Let's discuss how to save Mysore Painting from becoming a forgotten masterpiece. Hit that subscribe button to join our whatsapp channel to get the latest updates.