Santhal Plate

The artform of the Santhals (a tribe primarily located in West Bengal) is also known as or similar to the Bengal Pattachitra. Like any other tribe, the Santhals have an exclusive artistic representation of their cultural traditions and physical environments. The Santhals paint the walls of their huts during their biggest festivals, marriages, and celebratory performances as also for self-expression.  

Santhal paintings are characterized by a childlike simpleness and depict childlike birds, animals, and insects. The figures are static, frequently multicolor, artistic rather than realistic projections. Boldness and contrast are maintained in one health. Mother and child as well as human, animal, and bird couples are brought together by a philosophy of love and unions.