Unveiling a Hidden Treasure
On June 12, a collection of 25 rare paintings by the iconic Indian artist MF Husain will be auctioned in Mumbai, marking a significant event in the art world. These masterpieces, part of the 'Our Planet Called Earth' (OPCE) series created in 2004, have been hidden away in a bank vault for over two decades due to legal and financial disputes. The auction, hosted by Pundole Art Gallery at Hamilton House in Ballard Estate, is generating immense excitement among art enthusiasts and collectors.
The paintings, valued at over Rs 25 crore, depict Husain's vision of the 20th century, offering a unique glimpse into his interpretation of historical and cultural milestones. This event follows a recent Bombay High Court order by Justice Riyaz Chagla, which cleared the way for the auction to proceed. The public preview of these works, held from June 8 to 11 at Hamilton House, has already drawn significant attention to this historic sale.
Legal Battles and Controversies Surrounding the Collection
The journey of these paintings to the auction block has been fraught with challenges. Initially commissioned as part of a larger deal, the artworks became entangled in financial disputes linked to alleged loan scams worth Rs 100 crore and Rs 235 crore, prompting a CBI inquiry. These legal entanglements kept the paintings locked away, out of public view, until the recent court ruling allowed for their release.
Adding to the complexity, the auction has faced opposition from groups like Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, who have called for a ban on the sale, labeling some of Husain's works as 'anti-national' and controversial due to past depictions of Hindu deities. Despite these objections, the Bombay High Court's decision stands, ensuring that the auction will proceed as planned on June 12.
The art community remains divided on the issue, with some viewing the auction as a celebration of Husain's legacy, while others question the ethics of profiting from works tied to such controversies. Nevertheless, the event is poised to set new benchmarks for Indian art auctions, following a record-breaking sale of a Husain painting for 13.8 million dollars at Christie's in New York earlier this year.
A Milestone for Indian Art
The upcoming auction is not just about the sale of rare artworks; it represents a pivotal moment for Indian art on the global stage. MF Husain, often referred to as the 'Picasso of India,' has long been celebrated for his bold and innovative style. The release of these previously unseen canvases offers collectors a chance to own a piece of history, while also boosting confidence in the Indian art market.
Art experts anticipate that this auction could surpass previous records, given the rarity of the OPCE series and the international interest it has garnered. As Mumbai prepares to host this landmark event, all eyes are on Hamilton House, where the gavel will fall on June 12, potentially rewriting the narrative of India's biggest art deal.