Important Notice

Anwar Chitrakar
Untitled

a) and b) Signed in Bengali (lower right)
Watercolour on paper pasted on printed cloth
a) and b) 14 x 11 in (35 x 27.5 cm)
c) 15 x 11 in (37.5 x 27.5 cm)

(Set of three)


Kalighat paintings were first made in Bengal in the 19th century by traditional artists known as 'patuas' who had moved to Kolkata attracted by the newly established Calcutta School of Art. To make a living, these artists began painting at the Kalighat Kali temple in the city, and selling their work to devotees and tourists visiting the shrine as souvenirs. Blending Indian and Western styles, these unique paintings with their characteristic bold, single-stroke outlines soon came to be classified as a distinct school of painting in India. From their early depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses, Kalighat paintings have evolved and now reflect a number of subjects including contemporary family life, social evils and global events. Motifs like the cat holding a prawn in its mouth is typical of the images employed by Kalighat painters. Jamini Roy who was greatly influenced by Kalighat paintings, also used this image in his work on several occasions.

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