Untitled

Somnath Hore

Printmaking evolved as one of the primary modes of expression in Somnath Hore’s oeuvre. His early language was centered around human empathy and suffering, and continued to evolve throughout his career, with the imagery ranging from figurative to abstract. Parallelly, the artist continued to explore other thematics and subjects.

In this lithograph, instead of placing the sole focus on the subject as seen in his earlier woodcuts, Hore brings the focus on a scene. Placed within an interior space of an enclosed room is a reclining figure propped up against a chair. Historically, the reclining figure occupied an important place in both Western and Eastern art practices for centuries. Depending on the context of the painting or sculpture, such a posture could lean towards moods of contemplation or even relaxation. The woman, with one leg folded and the other placed on the floor, rests leisurely against the chair. She places one hand on the ground for additional support and rests the other on her torso. Echoing the barrenness of the room, the figure is devoid of any facial features and bodily characteristics. Instead, the artist uses quick lines and shading to mould the figure and space. This work stands as a testament to Hore’s robust artistic language which celebrates his mastery across different mediums and techniques.