Re-housing 60 double-sided Indian Paithan paintings

Abstract

This article describes a method of mounting a series of 60 nineteenth-century story-telling South Indian paintings without the need to adhere hinges to the objects. The paintings were originally produced in pairs, adhered back to back, and used in storytelling performances accompanied by music by a community known as Chitrakathis. The article describes a method that allows the paintings on both the recto and verso to be displayed. It also considers their access in a museum context that contrasts with the original purpose of the paintings, but ensures their preservation and safe use in a print room and in exhibitions.