Phad is a type of scroll painting.

This style of painting is traditionally done on a long piece of cloth or canvas, known as phad.

This type of painting is a most famous painting of Rajasthan, mainly found in the Bhilwara district.

The paintings depicting exploits of local deities are often carried from place to place and are accompanied by traditional singers (Bhopas) , who narrate the theme depicted on the scrolls.

Bhopas carry the painted Phads with them, using them as mobile temples for the worship of the folk deities.

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What are the subjects of phad painting?

Phad painting depicts the heroic deeds of a heroic figure, the daily life of a peasant, rural life, animals and birds, flora and fauna.

What types of colours are used in phad paintings?

These paintings are created using bright colours and subtle colours.

The outlines of the paintings are first drawn in black and later filled with colours.

Raw colours are used for these paintings.

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What are the main themes of the phad paintings?

The main themes of the phad paintings depict the deities (Pabuji and Devnarayan) and their legends and the stories of erstwhile Maharajas.

The phads dedicated to Pabuji are usually about 15 feet in length, while those dedicated to Devnarayan are generally about 30 feet long.

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What are the unique features of phad paintings?

The unique features of phad paintings are the bold lines and a two dimensional treatment of figures with the entire composition arranged in sections.

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How much old is phad painting?

The art of painting the phads is approximately 700 years old. It is said that it was originated in Shahpura, some 35 kms from Bhilwara in Rajasthan.

The continuous royal patronage gave a decisive impetus to the art which has survived and flourished for generations.

For over two centuries, the Joshi families of Bhilwara and Shahpura have been recognized as the traditional artists of Phad painting.

External link http://www.phadchitrakari.com/