The Inspiration
The inspiration for this project originated from traditional Morkuti (dancing peacock) pichvais. One of the most popular subjects in pichvai painting, Morkuti pichvais depict peacocks dancing during the monsoon, symbolizing the flamboyant dance that Krisha did to entice his true love, Radha. The scene, almost as if captured after the first spell of the monsoon, sings with the peacocks’ color and beauty.
Pichvai for Morkuti”, Artist unknown. Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Late 19th century. TAPI Collection
As an enthusiastic collector and supporter of pichvai painting, Goyal was inspired to create a limited edition series of Morkuti wall panels. These panels, in turn, led to a series of digital renderings and, finally, a prototype of the proposed cover.
Digital renderings and cover prototype
Full panel and detail: “Monsoon Pichvai” by Vikram Goyal, handcrafted brass repoussé inlaid with malachite, lapis lazuli, amethyst, and abalone