User: Given this paragraph about Thanjavur paintings and its origins, what are the typical features of Thanjavur paintings?
Assistant: Thanjavur paintings are easily discernible from the gold coating on wooden panels which form the base. They are characterized by  vivid colors, simple composition of icons along with usage of glass beads and at times precious stones. The subjects of paintings have traditionally been Hindus gods though they have evolved to depict secular subjects from other religions.