Renowned Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma’s artwork `Yashoda and Krishna` has been sold for Rs 167.2 crore (USD 17,978,495), to Dr Cyrus S. Poonawalla at the Saffronart auction, setting a new Indian art record for the highest-value work of modern Indian art ever sold at auction.
What is Raja Ravi Varma`s artwork `Yashoda and Krishna`?
Painted in the 1890s, during the height of the artist’s career, the artwork `Yashoda and Krishna` presents a nuanced interpretation of maternal love through the mythological figures of the infant Lord Krishna and his foster mother, Yashoda.
Known for some of the most breathtaking artworks by Indian artists, this is also regarded as one of Varma’s most significant and evocative compositions. The painting was offered with a pre-sale estimate of Rs 80–120 crore (USD 8.6–12.9 million).
Breaking records
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr Cyrus S. Poonawalla said, “I am privileged to have the opportunity to acquire, preserve, and care for the iconic Raja Ravi Varma painting `Yashoda and Krishna`. This national treasure deserves to be made available for public viewing periodically, and it will be my endeavour to facilitate this going forward.”
Its final sale price surpasses the previous record held by M. F. Husain’s Untitled (Gram Yatra), which achieved over Rs 118 crore (USD 13.8 million) at auction last year.
“Great art has a way of reaffirming its timeless value. The record-breaking sale of Raja Ravi Varma’s work not only underscores the strength of the art market, but also sets a new benchmark as the highest-value work of Indian art ever sold. It is not just a milestone for the market, but a powerful reminder of the enduring cultural and emotional resonance of Indian art,” said Minal Vazirani, who is the president and co-founder of Saffronart.
Raja Ravi Varma`s artwork breaks MF Husain`s record to set new benchmark
