Page 31 - Manifest September 2024

Lot No. 13

RAMKINKAR BAIJ

1906-1980
UNTITLED (LANDSCAPE)
30 x 48 in (76.2 x 122 cm)
Oil on canvas
Signed: Bottom Right
` 30,00,000 - 40,00,000
$ 36,585 - 48,780
Provenance: Property from a collection based
in Mumbai, thence by descent

Ramkinkar Baij, a bohemian genius, was a
pioneering artist and sculptor known for his
influential works. He lived and worked in
Santiniketan, where he was also a member of
the teaching faculty. His approach to creating
art was not rigid but playful, rooted in a deeply
personal and independent perspective.
Baij drew significant inspiration from the
Santhal tribe and their harmonious existence
with nature. A spontaneous and emotional
individual, his works reflect these human
qualities, yet he maintained a balanced sense
of poise and volume across all his creations,
whether in painting or sculpture.
Baij’s life was devoted to art, which he used
as a medium to connect with everyday
people, not just capturing their lives and
struggles, but also sharing their experiences.
Despite often facing financial hardship, at
times even using his oil paintings to patch
up his leaky roof, Baij earned significant
recognition, including the prestigious Padma
Bhushan award from the Indian government
and a fellowship from the Lalit Kala Akademi.
The modernist artist passed away in 1980,
leaving a lasting legacy.