Poonah painting is a type of Indian artwork that originated in the city of Pune. The spelling of the word is pronounced /puːnə paɪntɪŋ/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The word "Poonah" is spelled as it is pronounced, with the long "uu" sound to represent the "oo" and the silent "h" at the end. The word "painting" is spelled in its standard form, with the "ai" representing the long "a" sound and the "ing" as a suffix indicating a continuous action.
Poonah painting is a traditional form of Indian art that originated in the town of Poonah (now Pune) in Maharashtra, India, during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is a unique style of miniature painting characterized by its intricate details and vibrant colors.
Poonah paintings typically depict scenes from Indian mythology, folklore, or everyday life. The art form often features detailed representations of Indian gods and goddesses, royal courts, landscapes, animals, and plants. It is known for its distinctive use of bright colors, intricate brushwork, and fine detailing.
The paintings are usually executed on paper using natural pigments mixed with water and applied with brushes made of squirrel hair. Fine lines, delicate shading, and intricate patterns are common features of Poonah painting. The style incorporates a careful balance between fine detail and decorative elements, giving the artworks a rich and ornamental appearance.
Poonah painting gained popularity during the late 18th and early 19th centuries and was greatly influenced by the Mughal and Rajasthani schools of painting. It flourished under the patronage of the Maratha rulers and prominent families in Poonah.
Today, Poonah painting is considered a valuable part of India's artistic heritage. It has attracted attention from art enthusiasts, collectors, and scholars worldwide for its aesthetic beauty, technical skill, and cultural significance.
The word "Poonah painting" is derived from the city of Poona, which is now known as Pune, in the western state of Maharashtra, India. During the 19th century, Poona was a major center for the production of this unique style of decorative Indian painting. The term "Poonah painting" essentially refers to the traditional art form that originated in this city.