As India’s modern art landscape evolved, few names captured its essence as poignantly as Maqbool Fida Husain. Often called the ‘Picasso of India,’ M F Husain’s unique artistic vision not only celebrated the beauty and complexity of Indian culture but also placed him firmly on the global stage. On September 17th, as we mark Husain’s birth anniversary, AstaGuru’s Manifest auction offers an exciting opportunity to view and acquire several of his masterpieces.
MF Husain’s artistic journey began in the 1940s, and by the 1950s, his work had become synonymous with Indian modernism. His bold lines, vibrant color palettes, and fluid depictions of human figures, animals, and mythological themes made him a household name. Known for his thematic exploration of horses, women, and the everyday life of Indian streets, Husain’s work was deeply personal yet universally accessible.
The upcoming AstaGuru Manifest auction will feature several important works of Husain, spanning various periods of his prolific career. Here are five notable lots:
Lot No. 22 – Untitled (1970)
One of Husain’s iconic horse paintings, this piece combines the powerful image of a horse with the elegance of a female figure, a recurring motif in his art. Estimated at ₹1,00,00,000 – ₹1,50,00,000 ($121,951 – $182,927), this oil on canvas painting exemplifies Husain’s dynamic yet minimalist style
Lot No. 225 – Untitled (Mother Teresa, circa 1990)
This acrylic on canvas board offers a moving portrayal of Mother Teresa, capturing her humanitarian spirit. With a value estimated between ₹70,00,000 – ₹80,00,000 ($85,366 – $97,561), it stands as one of Husain’s important tributes to key figures in Indian history.
Lot No. 73 – Untitled (Circa 1960)
A monumental oil on canvas measuring 95.5 x 47.8 inches, this work delves into the faceless figures that are a poignant reflection of Husain’s early loss and complex relationship with memory. This piece has an estimated value of ₹3,50,00,000 – ₹5,00,00,000 ($426,829 – $609,756)
Lot No. 124 – Untitled (1992)
Husain’s acrylic on wood combines his artistic experimentation with a focus on mythology, showcasing his ability to use varied media. This piece, with an estimate of ₹20,00,000 – ₹30,00,000 ($24,390 – $36,585), reflects his diverse creative output
Lot No. 191 – Untitled (Circa 1990)
This large acrylic on canvas stands as an example of Husain’s modernist techniques, blending Indian cultural symbols with vibrant color compositions. It is estimated between ₹2,00,00,000 – ₹3,00,00,000 ($243,902 – $365,854) These works, each representing different aspects of Husain’s storied career, will be showcased at the AstaGuru auction, providing art collectors a rare opportunity to own pieces of India’s modern art heritage.
MF Husain’s legacy transcends the canvas, capturing the essence of a nation in transition. As these iconic works go under the hammer, they serve as a reminder of his unparalleled contribution to art, not just in India but across the world. For collectors, AstaGuru’s Manifest auction offers a chance to own a piece of this artistic journey,each brushstroke a testament to the life of an extraordinary artist.
To view the full catalog – log on to www.astaguru.com
