Introduction to a Legendary Artist
Almost two dozen paintings of one of the most famous modern artists in the world, MF Husain, will be auctioned for the first time next week. The 25 rare paintings, which have been locked up in bank vaults since 2008, will go under the hammer in an art gallery in Mumbai City. This will be the first public viewing of the paintings, which were confiscated from a prominent businessman due to a suspected credit issue.
The Story Behind the Paintings
The paintings were part of a record-breaking art contract between Husain and a businessman, Guru Swarup Srivastava, in 2004. The contract was worth a billion rupees, and Husain had planned to create a series of 100 paintings. However, the deal fell through, and the paintings were confiscated by the authorities. The case remains in court, and the paintings have been in bank vaults for over a decade.
The Artist’s Vision
The 25 paintings that will be auctioned offer an insight into Husain’s attitude towards a transformative century, shaped by leaps in technology, politics, and culture. The paintings reflect important events of the 20th century and social attitudes, showcasing Husain’s bold style and unique perspective. One painting shows an unlikely group chatting on a bench, symbolizing Husain’s call for peaceful dialogue and coexistence among global powers.
A Glimpse into the Artist’s Life
Husain, often referred to as the "Picasso of India," was one of the most famous and controversial artists in the country. His works fetched millions, but his bold subjects often sparked criticism. He died in 2011 at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of art that continues to inspire and provoke. The Pundole Art Gallery, where the auction will take place, was a studio for many of Husain’s works, and the director, Dadiba Pundole, has a deep understanding of the artist’s vision and creative process.
The Auction
The auction is expected to bring in up to $29 million, making it one of the most significant art auctions in recent history. The paintings will be sold to regain part of the loan that was allegedly misused by Srivastava. The auction will provide a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of Husain’s legacy and experience his bold and thought-provoking art.
A Legacy of Art
The episode of the failed deal and the unfinished series of the 20th century remains a striking footnote in Husain’s bold and eventful career. The 25 paintings that will be auctioned are a testament to his creative genius and his ability to capture the essence of a transformative century. As the art world prepares for the auction, it is clear that Husain’s legacy will continue to inspire and provoke for generations to come.
