B. Prabha

Christie's New York, 21 September 2005, lot 286

This work is in overall very good condition, as viewed. This work has not been inspected outside its frame. The colors in the print catalog appear more saturated.
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.

B. Prabha was one of the notable female modernists in India after Independence, known for her powerful depictions of working-class women instilling them with dignity and unusual grace. Although oil was her preferred medium for later works, she did explore other media, styles and subjects as seen in the present selection. The exquisite watercolor by Prabha is from her Kashmir series of the mid-1960s. Though she was a Maharashtrian artist from Bombay, Prabha carefully noted details of Kashmiri clothes and accessories as seen in the pherans (long loose shirts which hang down below the knees) and the tarangas (embellished head-dresses) worn by the two young damsels.