Ram Kumar (b. 1924)

Canvas in good overall condition. Colours of original are slightly brighter than the catalogue illustration especially in the blues.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Ram Kumar's most recent works reveal semblances of man-made structures that had long disappeared from his canvases. Glimpsed through the sweeping vistas of his landscapes they seem to suggest a fresh perspective to the counterpoint between the city and the 'spiritual' landscape that has preoccupied him throughout his career. Having traversed these opposing poles the artist seems to have reached his journey's end and has accepted these dualities. Such acceptance brings to these later works a more joyous use of color and less self-restrained compositions.

'The later Ram Kumar expands into abstraction, in great sweeps and strokes, 'scraping' together (literally, for that is his method) a subject that expressed Nature with just a hint of Man's presence.  Water, tree and mountain had taken over with colors that intensified, reduced or related rather than contrasted or juxtaposed.  Occasional bursts of brilliant blue seem to escape a reluctant hand.  Ram Kumar's abstractions blur with purpose - to make strong sweeping statements.' (Lakshmi Lal, "A Quality of Myth," in An Anthology of Contemporary Indian Art, New Delhi, 2004, p. 56).