Page 41 - AstaGuru Modern Odyssey

Lot No. 28

F N SOUZA
1924 - 2002

UNTITLED (HEAD OF A PRIEST)
16.1 x 13 in (41.1 x 33.1 cm)
Oil on canvas
1959
Signed & Dated: Bottom Left

` 60,00,000 - 80,00,000 | $ 73,171 - 97,561

Provenance: Property from an international collection.
Originally from the collection of Harold Kovner.

The presented work is a glorious example of F. N. qualities of Souza’s work in the fifties. During this
Souza’s fascination with the motif of head, one of the period, Souza’s works were marked by distinctive
most recurring and recognisable themes in his work. features, such as the elevated positioning of the eyes
and the angular contours defining the lower jaw and
This masterpiece once belonged to the esteemed beard. The intricate ornamentation of the priest’s
collection of New York art patron Harold Kovner, a robes alludes to the embellishments seen in the
visionary who recognized Souza’s burgeoning talent. Catholic Church, underscoring the enduring impact
Their serendipitous meeting in Paris in 1956 marked of religion from Souza’s formative years in Goa.
the beginning of a symbiotic relationship, with Kovner
providing Souza with financial freedom through a The vivid blue hues of the priest’s robes, set against
monthly stipend that spanned four prolific years. The a palette dominated by darker tones and flesh hues,
relief from survival struggles resulted in an extremely create a striking visual contrast. The figure itself,
productive phase for the artist. In spring 1962, Susan with its commanding gaze, dem¯ands the viewer’s
Seifert and family visited Harold Kovner in New York. attention, inviting contemplation into the deeper
When Kovner learned about her budding passion for spiritual and existential dimensions that Souza
art, he gave her the presented lot as a gift. sought to explore. The monumental scale of the
heads, constructed with impasto and deconstructed
The bold black outlines and cross-hatching with a palette knife, unveils multiple layers. This
undeniable traces of influence from various currents technique adds a palpable depth to the work, inviting
of European Modernism, that had left an impact on observers to delve into the intricate layers of meaning
the artist. It is also highly reflective of the expressive embedded in Souza’s masterful portrayal.