Tamasha

PROPERTY FROM THE ARTIST’S FAMILY

Gouache on paper
1956
16 1/4 × 21 in. (41.3 × 53.3 cm.)

Signed ‘Hebbar’ and further signed and dated in Devanagari lower left

Tamasha, painted in 1956, captures the vibrant energy of a folk tradition primarily through the use of Hebbar’s famous ‘singing line’, which is lively yet sensitive. The figures and the background are not distinguished through the use of different colours, drawing the attention firmly back to the line, which holds the composition together. Bold and sweeping, the individual musicians and dancers come to life under Hebbar’s skillful hand. In the upper tier, a row of dancers stand holding diyas, and rows of lamps continue down the entire left margin of the work. The three primary characters have a dynamism and energy that is palpable, be it through the female dancer’s movements, or the rhythm emanating from the two male musicians.

Tamasha was a genre of folk performance that incorporated dance, music, skits and poetry, sometimes with a stronger social message for the audience, other times purely for entertainment value. It is said to have originated around the 16th century and was made popular by the Mughal army who brought it to the Deccan during their campaigns in the region. It then spread to Maharashtra and Karnataka, where it was influenced further by Kathak songs.
Condition: The colours of the original are similar to the catalogue illustration. Not examined out of frame. Overall fair condition.