111

BIKASH BHATTACHARJEE

Indian, 1940-2006

"Worshipper", 1982

oil on canvas
signed and dated lower right "Bikash '82", titled on the reverse
40 x 42 in. (101.6 x 106.7 cm.), Frame: 41 3/4 x 43 3/4 x 2 in. (106 x 111.1 x 5.1 cm.)

  • Provenance: Mr. and Mrs. Roberto Muller; Gallery Chemould, Bombay, India; Private Collection, New York

    Other notes: This work is accompanied by a copy of a certificate from Gallery Chemould in Bombay, India dated November 19, 1982.

    Bikash Bhattacharjee (1940-2006) was a prominent Indian painter, renowned for his realistic and often haunting depictions of urban middleclass life in Bengal. His work is characterized by meticulous detail, dramatic lighting, and a deep psychological insight into his subjects. Bhattacharjee's art often explores themes of loneliness, alienation, and the decay of traditional values in modern society. Born in Kolkata, Bhattacharjee's early exposure to poverty and social disparity profoundly influenced his artistic vision. He studied at the Indian College of Art and Draughtsmanship and quickly developed a distinctive style that blended academic realism with surreal elements. His paintings often feature ordinary people in mundane settings, but these scenes are imbued with a sense of unease and mystery. Bhattacharjee's masterful use of chiaroscuro, the contrast between light and shadow, adds to the dramatic intensity of his work. The present lot, "Worshipper" from 1982, portrays a solitary figure kneeling in prayer, bathed in a harsh, almost theatrical light. The worshipper's posture is one of intense devotion, but there is also a sense of vulnerability and isolation. The surrounding space is sparse and unsettling, adding to the feeling of unease. "The Worshipper" exemplifies Bhattacharjee's ability to capture the complexities of human emotion and experience. The painting invites viewers to contemplate the nature of faith, the individual's relationship to the divine, and the loneliness that can accompany spiritual seeking. Bhattacharjee's contribution to Indian art is significant. He challenged the prevailing trends of abstraction and romanticism, choosing instead to focus on the realities of contemporary life. His work is a powerful commentary on the social and political landscape of India, and his unflinching portrayal of human suffering has earned him a place among the country's most important artists.
  • Condition: in excellent original condition; unlined canvas; no restoration apparent under UV

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    We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Shannon’s is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Frames on all paintings are sold "As Is". Frames may need some conservation. 
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