Abanindranath Tagore

Abanindranath Tagore (1871-1951) was a prominent Indian painter and a key figure in the Bengal School of Art. He was born in Calcutta, into the Tagore family, which was known for its contribution to Indian arts and culture. Tagore was a nephew of the poet Rabindranath Tagore. He was influenced by Mughal art, Japanese brush techniques, and European paintings, particularly the works of the Pre-Raphaelites. This amalgamation of styles led to the development of his unique approach to art, which was characterized by delicate brushwork and a lightness of touch.

Tagore is best known for his works that depict Indian subject matter, often drawn from Hindu mythology and literature. One of his most famous paintings is Bharat Mata (Mother India), which became an icon for the Indian independence movement. He also painted a series of works based on the life of the Mughal emperor Babar. Tagore was also an accomplished writer and a founding member of the Indian Society of Oriental Art. He played a pivotal role in the revival of traditional Indian arts and crafts, which had been declining under British colonial rule.

Throughout his career, Tagore mentored many young artists, including Nandalal Bose and Jamini Roy, who would go on to become significant figures in Indian art. His influence extended beyond India, as he had interactions with Western artists and intellectuals of his time. Tagore's legacy is preserved in the many institutions he helped establish, such as the Bengal School of Art and the Government College of Art & Craft in Kolkata. His works are held in several major collections, including the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi.