Canvas Base
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A pre-stretched cotton canvas or cotton cloth mounted on board is used as the painting base.
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If untreated, the cloth is coated with a mixture of chalk powder (sankha churna) and tamarind seed gum, then polished with a stone to give it a smooth, leathery texture.
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For modern canvas, a white acrylic gesso may be used as an alternative primer.
2. Natural Pigments (Vibrant Hues)
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Black (for outlines and Jagannath’s face): Made from lamp soot or burnt coconut shells.
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Red (used in clothing, borders): From hingula, a red mineral pigment.
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Yellow (for ornaments and divine features): Made from haritala or turmeric.
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White (for the eyes, markings, and decorative lines): Ground from conch shells.
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Blue and Green (used in backgrounds and embellishments): Made from indigo and plant extracts.
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All pigments are blended with natural tamarind gum for adhesion and long-lasting color.
3. Brushes
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Brushes are handmade from fine animal hair (such as squirrel or mongoose) fixed to bamboo or wooden handles.
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Used for precise linework, borders, facial features, and decorative patterns.
4. Adhesive (Binder)
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A natural adhesive made by boiling tamarind seeds is used for:
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Preparing the canvas surface.
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Mixing with powdered pigments to form durable, vibrant paints.
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5. Optional Embellishments
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Gold or silver foil detailing may be added using traditional gum adhesives.
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Natural shellac or lacquer can be applied as a protective coating to give a glossy finish.
