Maqbool Fida Husain, a pivotal figure in 20th-century Indian modernism, will be prominently featured in an upcoming art sale. Husain was a founding member of the Progressive Artists’ Group and began his artistic journey painting cinema billboards in Mumbai. His distinctive style and thematic explorations established him as a leading voice in the art world.
A recurring and beloved motif in Husain’s oeuvre was the horse, which he depicted as a symbol of endurance, aspiration, and transformation. Several pieces showcasing this iconic theme are anticipated to draw considerable attention. One notable untitled piece featuring seven horses is expected to be a leading lot, with pre-sale estimates ranging from £300,000 to £500,000. Other significant Husain works featuring horses include “Untitled (Seven Horses of the Sun),” estimated at £200,000-£300,000, “Untitled (Horse),” with an estimate of £120,000-£180,000, and “Untitled (King Horse),” valued between £100,000-£150,000.
Husain’s later career was marked by controversy over his depictions of Hindu deities, which led to calls for his arrest by right-wing organizations. Consequently, he lived in self-imposed exile in London from 2006 until his passing.
The auction will also present a strong selection of works by other influential Indian modernists. Among them is Francis Newton Souza, whose “Untitled (Head of Man)” is estimated to sell for £50,000-£70,000. An “Untitled (Urban Landscape Scene)” by Sadanand K. Bakre is expected to fetch between £40,000 and £60,000.
Furthermore, the sale will feature five works by Sri Lankan artist Senaka Senanayake. These include “Untitled (Bathers),” “Untitled (Fisherman),” “Untitled (Tea Pickers),” and “Untitled (Deer),” each estimated at £25,000 – £35,000, as well as “Composition with Women,” with an estimate of £10,000 – £15,000.
The Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art sale will be conducted by Bonhams at their New Bond Street location in London on June 4.
