Lot 62: Untitled (Ape Series)

RAMESHWAR BROOTA (B. 1941)
Untitled (Ape Series)
signed and inscribed 'R. Broota (Ape Series)' (on the reverse)
oil on canvas
16¼ x 18 in. (41.9 x 45.7 cm.)

In extreme contrast to lot 17 is this untitled work from Broota's Ape Series. In the 1970's Broota embarked upon his earlier renowned allegorical 'Ape Series,' marking a clear departure from the darker and more realistic portraiture that signified his earlier work. This series was the precursor to Broota's proto-man and showcases the artist's sense of humor. Depicting the anthropomorphic ape in telephone conversation, Broota employs these serio-comic settings to satirize pillars of society, normally the police and the judiciary as documentary on India's decadence and corruption.