Raja Ravi Varma painting sets Indian art record with $17.9m sale
Yashoda and Krishna, a 19th-century painting by Raja Ravi Varma, surpasses the record set by an MF Husain work last year in a historic auction.
An iconic 19th-century painting has set a new record for Indian art by selling for $17.9 million at auction. The artwork, titled Yashoda and Krishna, was created by the renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma, known for blending Western techniques with Indian mythological themes. This sale surpasses the previous record, which was set last year by a work from modern artist MF Husain, marking a significant milestone in the Indian art market.
The painting depicts Yashoda, the foster mother of the god Krishna, in an intimate and devotional moment, capturing the essence of Hindu mythology with Varma's characteristic realistic style. His work has been pivotal in the evolution of modern Indian art, and this record-breaking sale underscores his enduring influence and the rising value of historical pieces in the global market.
The auction attracted international collectors, reflecting the growing interest in classical Indian art. Experts note that this record could further boost demand for works by historical artists like Varma, solidifying India's position on the global art stage. The sale not only celebrates Varma's legacy but also highlights the country's cultural richness in the contemporary art market.
