George Keyt

Given by the artist in the early 1960s. The current owner is an Emmy award-winning British writer and television producer whose credits include Doctor Who, The Adventures of Black Beauty and Fraggle Rock.

There is minor but stable craquelure present across the surface of the work, particularly in the areas of thickly applied paint. There are very small areas of loss scattered throughout and three larger areas of loss above the figure's head in the upper centre of the work which would benefit from minor retouching or consolidation. This painting would greatly benefit if cleaned. As viewed.
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This painting was created in 1950 whilst the artist was in Bombay. In 1946, Keyt had left Ceylon for India, his beloved spiritual home. 'Post-war Bombay was home to an exciting world of art in ferment. It took Keyt to heart as a true original. He was lionised by society hostesses and artists. He held many exhibitions in Bombay, Delhi and Madras and also illustrated several books.' ( T. Devendra, 'The Lives of Keyt', George Keyt: A Centennial Anthology, The George Keyt Foundation, Colombo, 2001, p.55). Martin Russell a British intelligence officer and patron of Keyt's was in Bombay at the same time. In 1950, the same year this work was painted, Russell published an extensive monograph on Keyt, that was to bring fame to both artist and author.

A letter from Keyt sent to the current owner's partner indicates the artist's admiration for India. In the correspondence the artist describes his extensive travels around the subcontinent, visiting historical sites and monuments.

'The experience of once again living in India, the India to which in spirit he has always belonged, induced him to re-explore his favourite subject... he employed all his resources, springing line, rhythmical form and glowing colour, to imbue his subjects with innocent sensuality and poetic charm.' (W.G. Archer, India and Modern Indian Art, George Allen & Unwin Ltd,, London, 1959, p.135)

When this painting was given to the current owner, Keyt indicated that the work was one of several paintings intended for UNESCO.