A Tanjore painting depicting the Thanjavur Painting of the Lord Shiva Family typically portrays Lord Shiva, the Supreme Being in Hinduism, alongside his consort Parvati and their sons Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Shiva is often depicted with his characteristic features such as a third eye, matted hair tied in a topknot, a crescent moon on his head, and a trident (trishul) in his hand. Parvati is depicted as the divine mother, often adorned with traditional attire and jewelry, and sometimes depicted with her attributes such as a lotus or a mirror. Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is depicted with his vahana (vehicle), a mouse, and often with his favorite sweet, modak. Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, is depicted as a young warrior with six heads and seated on his vahana, a peacock. The painting may include intricate details, vibrant colors, and embellishments such as gold foil and precious stones, characteristic of Tanjore paintings.
