Badri Nath Arya

Born in Peshawar in 1936, Badri Nath Arya, or B.N. Arya as he is widely known, settled in Lucknow with his family after Partition. Showing no inclination towards the family business, Arya instead developed an interest in art and photography leading him to acquire a Diploma in Painting and Sculpture from the Lucknow College of Arts and Crafts. Arya’s works depict Indian culture, customs and myths, and are profoundly influenced by the Bengal School of Art.

In the current lot, Arya presents a waterscape at dusk or dawn. This enchanting scene employs exquisite coloration, with particular attention paid to light and shade. The lamps suffuse the immediate surroundings with a warm glow which is beautifully reflected in the still water. This atmospheric, intimate painting is quintessential B.N. Arya.