Location and Period

The painting was executed during Sher-Gil's second period in Hungary, after her marriage to Victor Egan in 1938. During this time, she lived between Kiskunhalas and Lake Balaton, where Egan was stationed for his military duty.

Style and Composition

Hungarian Church Steeple reflects the artistic maturity and the blend of influences Sher-Gil had accumulated from her time in France, Hungary, and India. The painting features characteristic elements of her later work, such as loose brushwork and a focus on capturing the essence of rural life.

Context and Themes

This painting is part of a series that includes other works like "Hungarian Village Market," "In the Garden," and "The Merry Cemetery," all of which were painted during the same period. These works often featured bare trees and other elements of the Hungarian landscape, which were significant in her compositions.

Ownership and Exhibition

The painting is currently in a private collection. It was originally gifted to Viola Egan, likely a relative of Victor Egan, Sher-Gil's husband.

Artistic Significance

Hungarian Church Steeple is one of the many works that showcase Sher-Gil's ability to capture the simplicity and beauty of rural life, reflecting her unique blend of Western artistic training and her deep connection to Indian and Hungarian cultures.