KG 193

GENDER EQUALITY: Kalighat painting emerged in 19th century Bengal as a distinct school of painting in the Kalighat area of Kolkata. Originally a purely religious artifact, it developed a unique social narrative owing to the secular themes it came to project on its surface. The present composition is a ripe specimen of the type of social commentary that was popular during the time this artform emerged. A couple are seated on the floor, engaged in a playful moment. Their garments allude to their possible bhadralok, or upper class, affiliations. The drapes of the woman’s sari lyrically adorn her body while the white accents highlight the decorative accents of her attire. The man’s black and white costume gives him a refreshing air. Both the figures although sufficiently expressive are drawn with masterful dexterity- result of measured spartan brush strokes and stoic use of colour.