Osian's Auction Catalogue The Masterpieces and Museum Quality Series | October 2004

THE MASTERPIECES & MUSEUM-QUALITY SERIES 31 Lot 6 represents the most significant work of Jamini Roy to emerge for public auction until date. In today’s time when many mediocre copies & various smaller works from his studio have reached the market, it will be interesting to see whether the connoisseur recognises the importance of this painting. 6 Jamini ROY [1887-1972/ b . Beliatore, Bankura; West Bengal] National Art Treasure Christ Initialled in English l.r. & inscribed separately on verso along the stretcher (t.l.) & the canvas (l.l.): “Started 22.11.64” & “ finished on Easter Friday 1966.” Oil on canvas, 1964-6 85.5 x 62.1 cm (34.4 x 24.4 in) Rs. 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 Non-Exportable Item ‘His work is built on solid ground, open and without pretence; it is based on universals of form which are understood by all who know art, whether from the East or West. The integrity of his art exists in the sincerity of his craftsmanship. It is a moral value which irritates his detractors, eludes his imitators and makes his work the standard against which contemporary Indian painting is to be measured.’ – Stella Kramrisch, rpt. in The Art Of Jamini Roy: A Centenary Volume BAAC 1987 ExC; p22. ‘Jamini Roy’s mature life coincided with the second world war. No wonder then, that in his subconscious, the image of Christ entered in a mood of acceptance of pain. Of course his Jesus is incarnated as a Santhal, monumental and dignified in his stoicism.’ – Mulk Raj Anand, rpt. in LKC 28 Sept. 1979; p9. Late 1910s Early 1920s Mid 1930s Mid 1960s