Page 362 - Manifest September 2024

Lot No. 216

F N SOUZA

1924-2002
UNTITLED
52 x 32 in (132 x 81.3 cm)
Acrylic on canvas
1986
Signed & Dated: Centre Left
` 50,00,000 - 70,00,000 | $ 60,976 - 85,366
Provenance: Property from an international collection

The female nude form is central to F.N. Souza’s
body of work, showcasing his exceptional mastery
of anatomy and earning him great reverence as
a painter. Souza’s bold and often provocative
depictions of the female body highlight his
individuality and artistic freedom. From his early
years, he explored themes of passion, drawing
inspiration from the sensuous forms of Indian erotic
sculpture, particularly those seen in the famed
Khajuraho temples. His approach to the nude was
not merely skin-deep; rather, he delved into the raw
sensuality of his subjects, portraying them without
hesitation or restraint.
Souza’s artistic vision reflects a deep understanding
of the human form and spirit, carving a path of self-
expression that was unfiltered and unapologetic. His
work resonates with a sense of unapologetic truth,
blending technical proficiency with a raw, emotional
depth. By doing so, he brings to life the artist within
the man, embodying the essence of both.
Souza’s nudes are more than simple portrayals of the
body; they serve as a platform for him to strip away
superficiality, revealing the underlying sensuality
and truth of human existence. His work captures
the balance between raw sensuality, veiled sexuality,
and the unvarnished reality of skin and form.