How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
In a fascinating tale of art, history, and philanthropy, the most expensive artwork by Indian artist MF Husain, titled “Untitled (Gram Yatra)”, has found a new home in an Oslo hospital. The stunning painting, which fetched a record-breaking ₹118 crore at a Christie’s auction, has a rich history that spans over six decades. From its creation in 1954 to its sale in 2021, this masterpiece has traversed continents and changed hands several times, eventually finding its way to the corridors of Oslo University Hospital.
The journey of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” began in 1954 when it was created by MF Husain, one of India’s most celebrated artists, for a Norwegian surgeon named LE Volodarsky. Volodarsky, who was based in Oslo, was a great admirer of Husain’s work and commissioned the painting for his home. The artwork is a testament to Husain’s unique style, which blended Indian folk art with modernist influences. The painting’s vibrant colors and intricate details are a reflection of Husain’s ability to capture the essence of Indian culture.
After acquiring the painting, Volodarsky displayed it in his home in Oslo, where it remained for a decade. In 1964, he made the decision to donate the painting to Oslo University Hospital, a prestigious medical institution in Norway. The hospital, which is renowned for its cutting-edge medical facilities and research, has a rich history dating back to 1845. The addition of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” to the hospital’s collection was a significant event, and the painting was exhibited in a private corridor for the benefit of patients, staff, and visitors.
For over five decades, the painting remained at the hospital, serving as a symbol of the hospital’s commitment to art and culture. However, in 2021, the hospital decided to auction the painting to raise funds for its medical research and treatment facilities. The auction was held at Christie’s, a leading international auction house, and “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” was expected to fetch a significant sum. The painting’s provenance, rarity, and cultural significance made it a highly sought-after artwork, and it eventually sold for a record-breaking ₹118 crore.
The sale of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the growing interest in Indian art globally. The auction result also highlights the importance of art in the healthcare sector, as it demonstrates the power of art to bring people together and raise funds for a good cause. The painting’s journey from Oslo to India is a fascinating tale that spans continents and cultures, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to transcend borders and boundaries.
In conclusion, the story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a fascinating example of how art can bring people together and transcend borders. From its creation in 1954 to its sale in 2021, this stunning painting has traveled a remarkable journey, changing hands several times and finding its way to the corridors of Oslo University Hospital. As India’s most expensive artwork, “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire and unite people across the globe.
Source:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
