
May one see it?
London, United Kingdom
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
The subject shows a stereotypical Bengali babu embracing his bibi or mistress. The style is similar to that of 19th century kalighat painting, but the choice and use of colour is original to the artist. Ranjit Chitrakar has based this painting on the traditional composition of a babu and bibi embracing, but has introduced new colours in his depiction of the figures in the form of pale lilac and pinks made from seasonal flowers. A traditional scroll painter, Ranjit Chitrakar creates Kalighat pats when requested. The long and thin orientation of this painting allows it to be easily rolled and stored along with his scrolls when not on display.
Victoria and Albert Museum