Antonio Xavier Trindade (1870 - 1935)

Acquired directly from the artist in 1929
Thence by descent

The canvas has been relined and is in stable condition. The tacking edges of the painting have been reinforced with linen in order to facilitate proper stretching. The canvas is well-stretched. The painting has been varnished. There are very minor surface abrasions, particularly in the lower left above the signature and next to the girl's bangle. There is fine craquelure in areas of thicker paint consistent with the age and medium. There are retouches in a 1 inch wide strip running horizontally across the bottom edge, where either some frame abrasion or old paint loss has occurred. All of the extreme edges have received a few spots of retouching, which is not uncommon. Under ultraviolet light, a spot of retouching can be seen at the top of the window frame on the left. The figure itself seems to be completely un-retouched except along the bottom edge.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Although oil portraiture was introduced in India in the 19th century, it was not until later that indigenous artists began to achieve prominence in this field. Antonio Xavier Trindade, fondly nicknamed the 'Rembrandt of the East' was one of India's leading modern portrait painters. Trindade was born in Goa of Catholic parents but emigrated to Bombay in order to earn a living. After assisting in the studio of Raja Deen Dayal, Trindade went on to become the superintendent of the Reay Workshops.