Tyeb Mehta's 1977 Work to Take Centre Stage at AstaGuru's Historic Masterpieces Auction - December 14 to 17, 2025

AstaGuru Prepares to Showcase India's Finest Modernists

AstaGuru's upcoming Historic Masterpieces auction, scheduled for December 14 to 17, 2025, is set to be one of the most significant moments in the modern Indian art market. The carefully curated catalogue brings together exceptional works by artists who shaped the evolution of Indian art across the 20th century.

From Tyeb Mehta's transformative 1977 canvas to rare works by Xu Beihong and icons of the Bengal School, the auction highlights both artistic excellence and cultural history.

A Curated Journey Through a Century of Indian Art

The auction features an extraordinary range of works by India's most celebrated modernists, including:

• Tyeb Mehta
• F. N. Souza, K. H. Ara, Sadanand Bakre, Krishen Khanna, K. K. Hebbar
• M. V. Dhurandhar
• Jamini Roy, Asit Haldar
• N. S. Bendre
• Manjit Bawa
• Ganesh Pyne
• Jehangir Sabavala

Together, these works create a compelling overview of Indian modernism, from the lyricism of the Bengal School to the bold experimentation of the Progressive Artists' Group.

AstaGuru on the Significance of This Auction

Manoj Mansukhani, Director - Marketing, shares:

"The 'Historic Masterpieces' auction presents one of the most thoughtfully curated selections in recent years. This catalogue traces the foundations of modern Indian art, from early Bengal School pioneers to the innovations of the Progressive Artists' Group. Each work reflects a moment of artistic breakthrough or cultural exchange. For us at AstaGuru, this edition celebrates the depth, diversity and global impact of India's artistic legacy."

Tyeb Mehta's 1977 Canvas - The Star of the Auction

The cover of the catalogue features Lot 21, a striking 1977 painting from Tyeb Mehta's highly transformative period.

• Executed in 1977
• Warm saturated tones contrast sharply with cool planar backgrounds
• A slashing black bar disrupts the figure, adding emotional intensity
• The work shows Mehta's mastery of form, colour and psychological depth.

Estimate: INR 30,00,00,000 to 40,00,00,000

Manjit Bawa - Two Poetic Visions

The auction includes two important works by Manjit Bawa, each capturing his lyrical and minimalistic style. Similar to other recent AstaGuru auctions featuring works from Bawa to Bendre, these pieces showcase the artist's distinctive approach.

Lot 27 – 'Flying'

Lot 65 – Untitled

A serene meditation on the human figure, showcasing his poetic simplicity.
Estimate: INR 2,00,00,000 to 3,00,00,000

Xu Beihong in India - A Rare Cultural Exchange

Lot 2 – Set of Sketches and Calligraphy

Somnath Hore - Sculpting the Human Condition

Lot 7 – Sculptural Work

K. K. Hebbar - Spirituality and Social Memory

Two significant Hebbar works enrich the catalogue:

Lot 11 – Ganesha Composition

Lot 48 – Reflective Period Work

Krishen Khanna - A Humanist Reimagining of a Biblical Theme

Lot 40 – 'The Last Supper'

F. N. Souza - Architectural Force in Late Style

Lot 47 – Landscape

M. F. Husain - A Moment from the Mother Teresa Series

Lot 49 – Mother Teresa Composition

Jehangir Sabavala - Monumental Quietude

Lot 87 – 'Conspirators' (1992)

A Landmark Opportunity for Collectors

AstaGuru's Historic Masterpieces auction is more than a showcase. It is a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire works of genuine historical importance. From Tyeb Mehta's transformative canvas to the lyrical depth of Bawa and the meditative power of Sabavala, each piece embodies a vital chapter in the story of Indian modernism.

Following the success of previous Masters Legacy auctions featuring rare works by India's modernist icons, this event continues AstaGuru's tradition of presenting museum-quality pieces to discerning collectors.

This is not simply an auction.
It is a passage through India's artistic legacy, curated for those who recognise the enduring value of cultural heritage. Much like the most expensive paintings ever sold at international auction houses, these works represent investment-grade art with significant cultural and financial value.

For art enthusiasts seeking to understand the broader context of such prestigious sales, exploring the world's top art galleries provides valuable insight into how masterpieces are curated and valued globally. Similarly, international auction highlights like Phillips' Hong Kong sales demonstrate the growing appreciation for modernist works across Asia.

Those interested in the evolving landscape of art collecting should also explore Sotheby's Masters Week events, which showcase how major auction houses continue to shape the global art market. For collectors considering alternative investment vehicles, the rise of online auctions has transformed accessibility to fine art.

The Historic Masterpieces auction also complements AstaGuru's Beyond Bold contemporary art showcase, demonstrating the auction house's comprehensive approach to representing both modernist and contemporary Indian art movements.