Lot#22 || F.N. Souza (1924 - 2002)
UNTITLED (Head)
(1966)
Gouache on paper
Inscribed and dated verso
17.50 x 12.00 in
Estimate ₹ 15,00,000 - ₹ 20,00,000
PROVENANCE
Originally from Grosvenor Gallery London
Originally from Grosvenor Gallery London
DESCRIPTION
Francis Newton Souza's distinctive artistic style expertly blended Western and Eastern techniques and motifs. His profound fascination with diverse influences—ranging from temple sculptures, Catholicism, old European masters, African tribal art, to European modernism—is evident throughout his work. Growing up in Goa, Souza developed a lasting preoccupation with Catholic visual culture, leading to a series of captivating paintings portraying religious iconography, particularly focusing on Christ. Souza's interest in depicting heads, often in an unconventional manner, became a recurring theme in his art. This thematic exploration persisted through the 1950s and 1960s, aligning with his broader range of figurative work. His strict Roman Catholic upbringing and critical stance against the Church fueled his persistent contemplation of religion, spirituality, and religious symbolism, which remained significant aspects of his artistic evolution. This work highlights his unique blend of Western and Eastern influences. The piece features a bold, abstract depiction of a head, rendered in vibrant blues with dynamic lines and shapes. Souza's fascination with religious iconography and unconventional portrayal of figures is evident in this work, reflecting his ongoing exploration of spirituality and critical perspective on religious themes.
Francis Newton Souza's distinctive artistic style expertly blended Western and Eastern techniques and motifs. His profound fascination with diverse influences—ranging from temple sculptures, Catholicism, old European masters, African tribal art, to European modernism—is evident throughout his work. Growing up in Goa, Souza developed a lasting preoccupation with Catholic visual culture, leading to a series of captivating paintings portraying religious iconography, particularly focusing on Christ. Souza's interest in depicting heads, often in an unconventional manner, became a recurring theme in his art. This thematic exploration persisted through the 1950s and 1960s, aligning with his broader range of figurative work. His strict Roman Catholic upbringing and critical stance against the Church fueled his persistent contemplation of religion, spirituality, and religious symbolism, which remained significant aspects of his artistic evolution. This work highlights his unique blend of Western and Eastern influences. The piece features a bold, abstract depiction of a head, rendered in vibrant blues with dynamic lines and shapes. Souza's fascination with religious iconography and unconventional portrayal of figures is evident in this work, reflecting his ongoing exploration of spirituality and critical perspective on religious themes.
EXHIBITED
Reminiscing Souza. Lalit Kala Akademi. 2024.
