Sketches allow for quick exploration of ideas and solutions, enabling adjustments before committing to final designs. It encourages free expression and experimentation, fostering innovation and creativity. Sketches serve as blueprints, guiding artist projects and ensuring that all elements are considered. They play an important role in the visualisation of the idea to help bring concepts to life and make abstract ideas more concrete and understandable.

A valuable tool in an artist's vision, sketches are crucial in expressing and refining ideas, and for effectively conveying thoughts and designs. Sketching helps artists learn about important painting elements like shape, form, light, and shadow. Artists are known for exploring a variety of themes related to identity, society, mythology, among others by using a mix of mediums including ink, charcoal, and pastels.

Presented below are some important paperworks from our upcoming auction:

Lot No. 01: ‘Hindoostanee Seapoys’ By Thomas Daniell RA

Thomas Daniell travelled to India in 1786 documenting the lives of people, landscapes, and architecture  accompanied by his nephew William Daniell. The presented lot is a pencil & grey wash on paper work executed circa 18th century by Thomas Daniell RA. This work showcases his mastery of form and shading, reflecting the artist’s deep engagement with Indian subjects during his travels.

Lot No. 56: Untitled By F N Souza

F N Souza has covered various themes in his oeuvre including landscapes, heads, and still life, and was best known for his human figures, particularly the nudes. The presented lot is a pen & ink on paper work, executed in 1988 depicting a nude female figure. His bold and expressive approach to his compositions made him a revolutionary artist during India’s independence era.

Lot No. 101: ‘Garhi’ By Krishen Khanna

Krishen Khanna is renowned for his expressive sketches and paintings, reflecting the human experience and emotions. His work typically features a blend of vibrant colours and dynamic forms, exploring themes of identity, memory, and culture. This lot titled 'Garhi' is a charcoal on paper work by Krishen Khanna, depicting various scenes from his life witnessed by him.

Lot No. 105: Untitled By M F Husain

Husain was the most celebrated Indian artist of the 20th century. Apart from his paintings, Husain was well known for his drawings, focussed on various themes and topics. His sketches are representative of his utilisation of bold and sharp outlines for his subjects. The presented lot is a felt pen on canvas work executed circa 1990 by M F Husain, depicting a goddess on a horse.

Lot 38: Untitled By Manjit Bawa

Manjit Bawa was a prominent Indian painter known for his vibrant use of colour and his distinctive style, often combining elements of traditional Indian art with contemporary themes. The presented lot is a pen on paper work, executed in 1992 by Manjit Bawa. His sketches were characterised by a spontaneous yet controlled approach, showcasing expressive figures and intricate details.

Lot 76: Untitled by Jogen Chowdhury

Jogen Chowdhury is an acclaimed Indian artist known for his unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. The presented lot is an ink on paper work executed in 1991 by Jogen Chowdhury, depicting a nude female figure. His sketches are a reflection of his deep understanding of form and line, capturing the essence of his subjects with fluidity and grace.