Madhubani Art Papier Mache - Pen Holder, Owl Motif. Beautiful & Unique. The origins of Madhubani or Mithila Painting from Bihar are shrouded in antiquity and mythology. Madhubani painting has remained confined to a compact geographical area and while the skills have been passed on through centuries, the content and the style have largely remained the same. Madhubani paintings are made from the paste of powdered rice and use two dimensional imagery, while colors used are derived from plants. Women of this region have traditionally painted colorful auspicious images on the interior walls of their homes on the occasion of domestic rituals since at least the 14th century. This ancient tradition, especially elaborated for marriages, continues today. The Paintings are now also done on cloth, handmade paper and canvas.