Page 46 - AstaGuru Masters Legacy April 2024

Lot No. 7

AMRITA SHER-GIL
1913-1941

UNTITLED
10 x 7 in (25.4 x 17.8 cm)
Watercolour on paper
Circa late 1920
Signed: Verso

` 20,00,000 - 30,00,000 | $ 24,390 - 36,585

Provenance: Property from a collection based
in Mumbai.

This lot is a National Art Treasure - Non Exportable
Item (payment only in Indian Rupees)

Amrita Sher-Gil, a Hungarian-Indian painter, is hailed
as one of the foremost avant-garde women artists of the
early 20th century and a trailblazer in modern Indian
art. Her passion for painting emerged early, receiving
formal instruction in the art from the age of eight.
Recognition came swiftly, with her oil painting titled
“Young Girls” garnering acclaim at just 19 years old.
Throughout her life, Sher-Gil journeyed extensively
to countries like Turkey, France, and India, drawing
inspiration from both precolonial Indian art styles and
contemporary culture. Her artistic contributions mark
her as a significant figure in 20th-century Indian art,
elevating her legacy to the ranks of pioneers from the
Bengal Renaissance. Today, her paintings command
some of the highest prices among works by Indian
women painters.

Amrita Sher-Gil, born on January 30, 1913, in
Budapest, Hungary, emerged as a significant figure
in Indian art during the 1930s, becoming the first
prominent female artist from the country. Despite
her short life span of 28 years, she spearheaded
the modern Indian art movement, paving the way
for subsequent developments by groups like the
Bombay Progressive Artists’ Group. Sher-Gil also
achieved the distinction of being made an Associate
of the Grand Salon, becoming the first Indian to
attain this honour. Her early works showcase a strong
influence of European painting styles, particularly
that of the post-Impressionists. Certificate of authenticity