AMRITA SHER-GIL | Untitled

This lot is a National Art Treasure under Indian Law and is subject to restrictions, including those applicable under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972. This lot may not be exported outside of India by any person other than the Indian Central Government or any authority or agency authorized by the Indian Central Government.

Collection of the artist
Thence by descent to a member of the artist's family
Acquired from the above by the current owner circa 2000s

The paper has yellowed over time and there are scattered spots of foxing and discoloration in the work, visible upon close inspection. Minor undulations are also present across the surface. There is a crease running diagonally across the top right and a small crease in the top right corner. This work has not been inspected outside its frame. It is in overall good condition commensurate with age, as viewed. The colours are brighter in reality.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This delicately rendered watercolour was painted by Sher-Gil when she was only ten years old. From an early age Sher-Gil had shown and aptitude for drawing. “It seems to me that I never began painting that I have always painted. And I have always had, with a strange certitude, the conviction that I was meant to be a painter and nothing else.” (Y. Dalmia, Amrita Sher-Gil, Art & Life, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2014, p. 3) Around the time this watercolour was painted the family had settled in Simla having been in Hungary for almost ten years. During their return trip to India they stopped off in Paris where they admired the masterworks in the Louvre. Once in Simla, Sher-Gil began to take art lessons with the artist Hal Bevan Petman, formerly of the Slade School of Art London. Petman placed an emphasis on drawing and form, that he believed was the basis of all art. Petman sooned realised Sher-Gil was very talented, 'he came to believe that his young pupil was a rather unusual and remarkable person who had it in her to become a real artist if given the requisite freedom.' (Y. Dalmia, Amrita Sher-Gil: A Life, Penguin Books, New Delhi, 2006, p. 18)