Boy with Lemons (1935)
Created in 1935, 'Boys with Lemons' captures two boys engaged in a lively interaction framed by the bright yellow lemons that dominate the foreground. Painted during Amrita Sher-Gil's return to India after her studies in Europe, this piece showcases her ability to merge Western techniques with Indian subject matter. Measuring 56 x 90 cm, the work reflects Sher-Gil's focus on the simplicity and beauty of daily life within the Indian context. The painting gained notable recognition by being exhibited at the prestigious Simla Fine Arts Exhibition in the same year it was completed.
Year 1935
About the Artwork
The painting 'Boys with Lemons' was crafted during a transformative period in Amrita Sher-Gil's life after returning to India from Europe in late 1934. In this work, Sher-Gil effectively portrays two boys, seemingly lost in their playful dialogue, surrounded by an array of bright lemons that radiate warmth and color. The choice of this innocent subject matter emphasizes her focus on the realities of Indian life and lends an everyday quality to her sophisticated artistic approach. Presented at the 63rd annual Simla Fine Arts Exhibition in September 1935, the painting not only enriched her portfolio but also illustrated the cultural nuances she intended to promote. Declared a 'NON-EXPORTABLE NATIONAL ART TREASURE,' it encapsulates her enduring legacy in Indian art.
