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of art by this artist.
Asit Kumar-Haldar Biography
Asit Kumar Haldar (1890-1964) was a pivotal figure in the Indian art scene, particularly known for his contributions to the Bengal School of Art. Born into the illustrious Tagore family in Jorasanko, Calcutta, Haldar was the grandnephew of the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This connection not only introduced him to a culturally rich environment from an early age but also deeply influenced his artistic journey.
Haldar's education at the Government School of Art in Calcutta laid the foundation for his artistic career. Under the tutelage of Abanindranath Tagore, one of the pioneers of the Bengal School, Haldar honed his skills in various mediums including oil, tempera, watercolors, and a unique technique he developed known as 'lacit'—lacquered painting on wood. His early exposure to the Ajanta and Bagh cave paintings, alongside Nandalal Bose under the guidance of Christiana Herringham, played a significant role in shaping his artistic vision. This experience instilled in him a profound appreciation for India's rich cultural and religious history, which became a recurring theme in his work.
Haldar's versatility as an artist was evident in his wide-ranging subject matter that included mythological themes, historical episodes, and interpretations of literary works. His series of paintings on Buddha and the Mahabharata are particularly noteworthy for their spiritual depth and artistic excellence. Haldar's work was not just limited to painting; he was also an accomplished sculptor, writer, and educator. He authored several books and essays on art and culture, contributing significantly to the intellectual discourse of his time.
In 1911, Haldar played a crucial role in establishing the Kala Bhavan at Shantiniketan, where he served as the principal, working closely with Rabindranath Tagore to promote cultural activities. His tenure at Shantiniketan was marked by a commitment to fostering an environment that encouraged artistic exploration and innovation.
Haldar's artistic achievements were recognized internationally when he became the first Indian to be elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, London, in 1934. This accolade was a testament to his contributions to the art world and his efforts to bridge Eastern and Western artistic traditions.
Throughout his career, Haldar's work was characterized by a lyrical quality and a delicate handling of colors and forms. He drew inspiration from Indian mythology, history, and literature, blending traditional Indian aesthetics with modern sensibilities. His paintings are distinguished by their elegance, spiritual depth, and the seamless integration of various artistic influences, from Rajput and Pahari miniatures to the frescoes of Ajanta.
Haldar's legacy extends beyond his artistic output. As an educator and principal of the Government College of Arts and Crafts in Lucknow, he influenced a generation of artists, instilling in them a respect for India's artistic heritage while encouraging them to explore new avenues of expression. His contributions to the Bengal School and Indian art as a whole have left an indelible mark, making him one of the most respected artists of the Bengal Renaissance.
In conclusion, Asit Kumar Haldar's multifaceted career as an artist, educator, and writer reflects his deep engagement with the cultural and artistic traditions of India. His work, characterized by its lyrical beauty and depth of expression, continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike. Haldar's legacy is a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge cultures and generations, making him a pivotal figure in the history of Indian art.
Asit Kumar-Haldar Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
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