Maqbool Fida Husain’s artwork “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” sold for a record $13.7 million at Christie’s, establishing a new high for Indian Modern Art. The auction exceeded expectations substantially and is seen as a significant milestone for both Husain and the Indian art market overall.
The value of Indian Modern Art has surged following the sale of Maqbool Fida Husain’s artwork for a record $13.7 million (approximately ₹118.7 crore) at Christie’s auction in New York, held on March 19. This remarkable sale surpassed Christie’s initial estimate of $2.5 million to $3.5 million, setting a new benchmark for Indian art. Previous to this, Husain’s highest recorded sale was ₹26.75 crore ($3.1 million) for his piece titled “Untitled (Reincarnation).”
Husain’s nearly 14-foot-long oil on canvas, titled “Untitled (Gram Yatra),” was created in 1954 and features 13 scenes reflecting village life following India’s Independence. This work is notable for its artistic vision of nation-building and was first displayed in the artist’s hometown. Nishad Avari, head of Christie’s South Asian Modern and Contemporary Art, expressed enthusiasm over this landmark achievement, emphasizing its significance in the upward trend of the Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art market.
Experts believe that the implications of this sale will extend beyond Husain’s works, impacting the entire Indian art scene. Ashish Anand, CEO of DAG, noted that Husain’s prices had finally aligned with those of his contemporaries, marking a correction in the market disparity. With significant price increases observed in other art pieces as well, this indicates a broader confidence in Indian art’s market dynamics.
Husain has consistently ranked among the leading modern and contemporary Indian artists, with his total auction sales reaching ₹1,721 crore for 3,285 works sold since 1987, outpacing SH Raza, who holds second place. Husain, a member of the Progressive Artists Group, developed his style influenced by classical Indian art. A pivotal visit to a classical painting exhibition in 1948 significantly shaped his artistic direction.
Despite his creative prowess, Husain faced challenges later in life due to controversies surrounding his depictions of Hindu deities, leading to his self-imposed exile until his death in 2011. In January, two of his artworks were seized by police following legal complaints asserting that they offended religious sensitivities. Husain’s previous record for a painting was established at $3.1 million, representing an impressive 450% increase with the sale of “Gram Yatra.”
The sale of “Gram Yatra” has been well-received across the art industry, reinforcing the notion that Indian modern art is a formidable presence in the auction market and further solidifying Husain’s prominent legacy as a vital figure in Indian artistry.
In conclusion, Husain’s recent record-breaking sale marks a significant moment for Indian Modern Art, indicating a growing confidence in this sector. The substantial increase in auction prices for Husain’s works is a testament to his enduring legacy and influence. As the market evolves, this event is expected to have a far-reaching impact on both Husain’s portfolio and the broader Indian art landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
