Maqbool Fida Husain (1915-2011)

Some discoloration to white pigment overall consistent with age. Green chariot fractures and repaied with glue at center, stable. Chips to two lower hooves on horse, as visible in catalogue illustration. Some abrasion and water staining overall.
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.

“In 1942, [Husain’s] first son Shafat was born. In need of a regular job, he quit painting cinema hoardings and began working at the Fantasy Furniture Shop as a furniture and toy designer. There, he became popular for his imaginative and beautiful concepts. With the birth of his daughter Raisa, he also began designing wooden toys.

“Husain worked with Fantasy Furniture Shop for six years, a period during which his salary increased from Rs 6 to Rs 300. He continued making toys even after he quit the job in 1947. In 1975, Husain would try and recreate the magic of the wooden toys using Styrofoam. They would also make an appearance in his paintings.

‘Husain’s toys should not be called toys,’ wrote R. Chatterjee in a book upon the subject, ‘they are not playthings for the amusement of children. They are neither ephemeral nor piquant in appeal. Their formal beauty and decorative charm are enduing, which gives these toys almost monumental quality,’” (Berlia, Continuum: Progressive Artists’ Group, Delhi, 2011, p. 71).