
Priya Singh
Head of Department
Sold for £19,200 inc. premium
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Cataloguer
Provenance
Property from a private collection, UK.
Thence by descent.
K. H. Ara's 'Still Life' paintings stand as compelling examples of his mastery over form, colour, and composition. One of the founding members of the Progressive Artists' Group (PAG), Ara was known for his unpretentious depictions of everyday subjects, infusing them with a sense of vitality and immediacy. The two Untitled (Still Life) works on offer in this auction showcase Ara's ability to transform ordinary objects, a bowl of fruits and flowers in a vase, into vibrant compositions that transcend the mundane.
In these works, Ara's use of bold, expressive brushstrokes and rich, earthy tones lends a tactile quality to the depicted objects, highlighting their texture and volume. The careful arrangement of items within the frame exemplifies his keen understanding of spatial relationships and balance. While his 'Still Lifes' appear deceptively simple, there is a subtle play of light and shadow that adds depth and character to the compositions, imbuing the inanimate with a lively presence.
Moreover, the works in this series are distinguished by their focus on domesticity and the overlooked beauty of ordinary things. These paintings are not merely depictions of objects but are also reflective of the artist's sensitivity to his surroundings and his ability to find aesthetic value in everyday life. Through these works, Ara celebrates the essence of the humble and the familiar, making the 'Still Life' series a significant part of his artistic legacy and a testament to his nuanced approach to modern Indian art.
To see a similar work sold in these rooms see Bonhams, Modern & Contemporary South Asian Art, 6th June 2023, lot 2.