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Lot 5. MAHADEV VISHWANATH DHURANDHAR (1867–1944) BAL KRISHNA, SIGNED BOTTOM RIGHT, OIL ON CANVAS Early 20th century Rendered in oil on canvas, this delicately modelled portrait depicts the infant Krishna with rounded cheeks and serene expression, holding a golden flute amid a profusion of pale orange and white blossoms. The deity’s skin is softly shaded in tones of light blue, offset by warm floral hues and the creamy background. Finely detailed ornaments—a peacock feather crown, pearl earrings, and gold jewellery—accentuate the composition’s devotional character. The brushwork is smooth and precise, with subtle gradations lending the image a refined sense of depth. The artist’s signature, M. V. Dhurandhar, appears at the lower right. Dhurandhar’s portrayal of Bal Krishna exemplifies the fusion of academic realism with devotional idealism characteristic of Bombay School painting. His works balance Western modelling techniques with the narrative intimacy and spiritual sensibility central to Indian religious imagery. Measurements: 22.2 x 17.2 in (56.4 x 43.7 cm) Provenance: Private Collection, Paris Footnotes: Within the Bombay art milieu, a cohort of artists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries manifested a distinctive blend of academic finesse and a thematic focus on indigenous subjects. Among this cadre, Mahadev Vishwanath Dhurandhar (1867–1944) emerged as a preeminent figure, navigating the delicate equilibrium between academic realism and the vibrant realm of commercial art, strongly influenced by the legendary Raja Ravi Varma. Dhurandhar, renowned for his mastery across various mediums, particularly excelled as an illustrator. His oeuvre encompasses captivating series delving into the heart of Bombay and its denizens, Women of India, depictions from Hindu mythology, and an artistic interpretation of The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. His artistic contributions held a pivotal role in shaping the nascent Indian art scene, encapsulating a rich tapestry of cultural narratives. Beyond his artistic prowess, Dhurandhar left an indelible mark as an educator and administrator. Appointed as the inaugural Indian Director of the Sir J.J. School of Art in 1930, he played a crucial role in steering the institution toward excellence. His multifaceted legacy, spanning the realms of painting, illustration, education, and administration, underscores Mahadev Vishwanath Dhurandhar’s enduring impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of early 20th-century India.