The Babu and Bibi In Kalighat by Bapi Chitrakar

This exquisite Kalighat painting by contemporary artist Bapi Chitrakar captures a charming and intimate domestic moment between a "Babu" and "Bibi", emblematic of the satirical and social themes often explored in this traditional Bengal art form. At the center of the scene is the mustachioed Babu, kneeling with confident pride as he adorns himself with a pink turban, carefully wrapping it with both hands in a ceremonious manner. His attire—an elegant sky-blue kurta with intricate teal detailing—enhances his aura of vanity and importance. kept beside him on a modest wooden table lies a red turban and a small round container, perhaps of vermillion or oil, completing the setting of a man deeply absorbed in his grooming ritual. To his right stands the Bibi, draped in a graceful orange saree with polka-dotted borders, holding a matching scarf or dupatta. Her expression is one of mild amusement, possibly admiration or light-hearted mockery, as she watches her husband revel in his reflection or preparation. Adorned with bangles, earrings, and necklaces, she exudes traditional elegance, her body language suggesting both familiarity and patience. The flat backdrop and earthy tones, characteristic of Kalighat style, keep the viewer’s focus squarely on the couple’s interaction. Through bold outlines, stylized features, and minimal background, Bapi Chitrakar brings to life a slice of everyday Bengali life, blending humor, affection, and the subtle dynamics of gender and vanity in a playful, vivid narrative full of cultural resonance.

Each of our artworks are hand painted by master artists across India. We provide a digital authentication certificate with this artwork signed by the artist which will be sent over email after 3-4 days of delivery of the artwork.

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The sizes mentioned are excluding the borders of the artwork. Frames shown are for visual representation only and are not included with the artwork.

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Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri

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• A flat shipping charge of ₹4,000 applies to international artwork orders.
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Additonal Shipping Charges

Extra charges may be applicable for both domestic and international deliveries in the following cases:

• If the article requires additional packaging (such as a wooden crate) to ensure safe shipping due to its delicate nature.
• Custom-framed artworks.
• Artworks where shorter side exceeds 36 inches or Decor items with any side over 35 inches.
• If you request express shipping. Contact support to check availability.
• The order contains more than two different product types.

You can proceed with your purchase, and our team will contact you to confirm any applicable additional shipping charges before processing your order. Alternatively, reach out to us on WhatsApp or email, and we'll assist you in completing your purchase with the final pricing.

All artworks are handmade and couriered securely packed in a tube.

This artwork will be Made to Order and will take 2-3 weeks to be made and shipped. Returns are not applicable on Made To Order artworks.

Once your order is placed, our team stays in constant communication with the artist to track the progress and ensure the quality of your order. You will receive regular updates from us throughout this process.

All MeMeraki artworks are hand-painted. In rare occasions, artist may face delays due to weather, health, prior commitments or force majeure. Our team will reach out to you with revised timelines in case of such delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience in such situations.

All artworks on the website are hand painted from scratch by our master artists. This makes every artwork absolutely unique and the actual colour and overall artwork may vary slightly from the artwork image posted here.