Lot 56: JEHANGIR SABAVALA | The Intangible Menace

Oil on canvas

82 x 95 cm. (32 ¼ x 37 ⅜ in.)

Oil on canvas

There is minor frame rubbing, slight accretions and pigment irregularities across the surface of the painting, only visible under very close inspection. The painting is on its original stretcher and there is very slight buckling in the corners which could be rectified with re-stretching. A light clean is recommended but the painting is in good overall condition, as viewed. The painting bears a Lalit Kala Akademi label on reverse.
"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."

Sabavala, Sadanga Series by Vakil & Sons Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, 1966, illustration p. 39 

R. Hoskote, Pilgrim, Exile, Sorcerer, The Painterly Evolution of Jehangir Sabavala, Eminence Designs Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, 1998, illustration p. 14 

From the collection of Vijaya Lakshmi Nehru Pandit (1900-1990), who acquired the painting when she was Governor of Maharashtra, from 1962-64. She resigned her position as Governor in 1964 when her brother, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru died, in order to stand for election to Parliament (Lok Sabha) from his constituency, Phulpur in Allahabad. The painting hung in Raj Bhavan, Bombay, while she was Governor, and thereafter in her Dehradun home.