How did India’s most expensive artwork, by MF Husain, reach a Norway hospital?
The world of art is often shrouded in mystery, with stories of masterpieces being passed from hand to hand, crossing borders, and changing hands over the years. One such intriguing tale is that of MF Husain’s “Untitled (Gram Yatra)”, now India’s most expensive artwork, which has recently resurfaced in an unexpected location – a Norway hospital. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating journey of this masterpiece, exploring how it came to be in the possession of Oslo University Hospital and the events that led to its sale at a Christie’s auction.
The Early Years
MF Husain, one of India’s most renowned artists, was born in 1915 in Pandharpur, Maharashtra. He began his artistic journey at a young age, influenced by the traditional Indian art forms of folk and miniature paintings. In the 1940s, Husain moved to Bombay (now Mumbai), where he became a prominent figure in the Indian art scene. His unique style, which blended traditional Indian art with modernist elements, gained international recognition, and he became one of the pioneers of Indian modern art.
The Painting’s Early Owners
Fast forward to 1954, when a Norway-based surgeon, LE Volodarsky, purchased “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” from Husain himself. It is believed that Volodarsky was a keen art collector and had a deep appreciation for Indian art. The painting was then taken to Volodarsky’s home in Oslo, where it remained for over a decade.
The Hospital Connection
In 1964, Volodarsky decided to donate the painting to Oslo University Hospital. The hospital, which is one of the largest in Norway, has a rich history dating back to 1812. At the time, the hospital was looking to enhance its art collection, and Volodarsky’s gift was seen as a valuable addition. The painting was exhibited in a private corridor, where it remained for many years, admired by hospital staff and visitors alike.
The Christie’s Auction
Fast forward to 2022, when “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” was sold at a Christie’s auction for a staggering ₹118 crore, making it India’s most expensive artwork. The sale was a surprise to many, as the painting’s previous owners had no intention of selling it. So, how did it end up at the auction block? According to reports, the hospital had decided to sell the painting to fund new medical equipment and infrastructure.
The Journey from Hospital to Auction
The journey from the hospital to the auction block was a long and winding one. The painting was first put up for sale by the hospital in 2019, but it failed to attract any serious buyers. It was only in 2022 that Christie’s, one of the world’s leading art auction houses, stepped in to facilitate the sale. The auction house worked closely with the hospital to appraise the painting, which was eventually sold to an anonymous buyer.
Conclusion
The story of “Untitled (Gram Yatra)” is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and cultures. From its creation in India to its journey to Norway and back to India again, this masterpiece has traveled a long and winding road. The sale of the painting at Christie’s auction has not only made it India’s most expensive artwork but has also shed light on the fascinating history of Indian art and its global appeal.
Sources:
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/m-f-husain-painting-9903618/lite/
