MAQBOOL FIDA HUSAIN (1915-2011)

Hints of Cubism surface frequently in Maqbool Fida Husain's art. In this painting, the broken delineation of the figure together with the strong patchy background suggests the early Cubist work of Pablo Picasso. However, while Picasso took much of his inspiration from African and tribal art, Husain is clearly drawing from the sculptural forms of his own country, looking back at the remarkable legacy of Indian temple statues. This connection to his native country is reinforced by the choice of the traditional Indian color palette of glowing reds, yellows and earthy browns.