The art world is buzzing with anticipation as twenty-five masterpieces by MF Husain, one of India’s most celebrated modern artists, are set to be auctioned for the first time next week in Mumbai. These paintings, which have remained hidden in bank vaults since 2008 following a significant legal battle, will finally be available for public viewing beginning June 12.
The auction at Pundole Art Gallery represents a return to the spotlight for these rare works, which have been unopened for over a decade due to their seizure linked to a prominent businessman's alleged loan default. Dadiba Pundole, director of the gallery hosting the auction, remarked, "It's like the paintings have come full circle,” emphasizing the significance of this moment in both art and legal history.
Husain, often hailed as the "Picasso of India," began working on this series of paintings in the early 2000s, driven by excitement and passion. His bold themes and signature style have made him a controversial yet beloved figure within the art community, and his works have commanded staggering prices in the market.
The upcoming auction, aptly titled "MF Husain: An Artist's Vision of the XX Century," could potentially yield around $29 million, especially following the successful sale of another painting of his earlier this year, which reportedly fetched $13.8 million at a Christie's auction in New York.
Husain’s journey with these paintings began in 2004 when he signed a billion-rupee deal with businessman Guru Swarup Srivastava. Media dubbed this arrangement "India’s biggest art deal" that unexpectedly thrust Srivastava into the limelight as a prominent art collector. However, two years later, scrutiny from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) initiated a long chain of events leading to the paintings' seizure amid allegations of financial misconduct.
Despite alluding to past deals and disappointments, Pundole expressed that Husain was unfazed by the status of the buyers and was focused more on the sale than on reputation. The looming question about how Husain viewed the stalled deal and his unfinished paintings remains unanswered, but the upcoming auction is undoubtedly a vital chapter in his remarkable legacy.
With these vibrant works showcasing events and emotions from the 20th century—including peace, social disparity, and human tragedy—the collection holds deep significance. Key themes creatively interrogate vital historical moments and social conditions while eliciting dialogue about humanity’s past and its hope for coexistence. As India eagerly prepares to witness the unveiling of Husain's artistic vision, this auction signifies more than just a transaction—it is a rediscovery of a pivotal artist who continues to influence generations to come.
