Artwork
Seated Tribesman among Rocks
Seated Tribesman among Rocks is a paint painting by the Contemporary Realist artist Somnath Hore. It dates from 13 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Seated Tribesman among Rocks is a painting depicting a hunched male figure seated amidst rocks, characterized by rapid, expressive lines and a somber, contemplative pose.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is likely a tribal individual from the hills near Shantiniketan, where the artist resided. The figure's posture conveys a sense of resignation or introspection, reflecting the artist's longstanding concern with representing human suffering.
Technique & Style
The painting features simple, rough lines indicative of a rapid sketch. The angular forms of the figure's head are mirrored in the surrounding rocks, demonstrating a harmonization of natural and human elements. The style echoes Hore's earlier pencil sketches of famine victims and peasants.
History & Provenance
Created by Somnath Hore (1921-2006), an artist influenced by the Bengal famine of 1943 and subsequent social conflicts. His work often expressed solidarity with the suffering, drawing from his experiences and political affiliations with the Communist Party of India.
Context
Part of a broader body of work responding to mid-20th-century crises, including World War II, India's partition, and the Vietnam War. Hore's artwork was also published in 'Janayuddha' and 'Peoples War' during the 1940s, highlighting the plight of marginalized communities.
Artist & collection
Artist
Somnath Hore (1921–2006) was an Indian sculptor and printmaker. His sketches, sculptures and prints were a reaction to major historical crises and events of 20th century Bengal, such as the Bengal Famine of 1943 and the…
