Pichwai Wall Plate by Master Artsian Kuldeepak Soni
SIZE: 11 inch (diameter)
MEDIUM: Natural Colours on Handmade plate
MAKING OF THE PLATE: The base plate is a cotton canvas pasted onto a moulded plate using tamarind paste. A mixture of chalk powder and multani mitti is applied, dried, and smoothened with stone for a polished canvas. To prevent insect damage we use crushed neem leaves. With multiple layers of coating, drying, and finishing, the complete plate-making process spans three full days.
NATURAL COLOURS: The tree comes to life in Hara Bhata (Light Green), its form delicately outlined in deep green for contrast and depth. The soft Neel (Light Blue) from Indigo, of Krishna’s legs stands out, drawing attention to his divine presence. Gold foil graces the flute and paayal, catching the light and enhancing the painting. Each color undergoes a meticulous elaborate process of sourcing natural materials, cleaning, crushing, mixing with water and adding adhesives.
Hidden Presence
Master artisan Kuldeepak Soni weaves a playful yet sacred story into this plate, using the mango tree as a hidden canvas for Krishna’s presence. At first glance, it’s just a beautiful tree, but look closer. Krishna is here, concealed in the details. His soft, sky-blue feet peek out, and then there’s the unmistakable flute, the ultimate clue to his presence.
Krishna and trees share a timeless bond. Whether escaping watchful eyes, lounging in the branches, or plucking mangoes with a mischievous smile, his connection to nature is undeniable. The plate’s colors bring this to life. The vibrant green background feels alive, as if the tree itself is whispering secrets. The soft blue of Krishna’s feet blends with the scene, like the sky touching the earth. It’s a moment of divine mischief captured forever.