About the Artwork +
This striking Kalighat painting by Anwar Chitrakar explores one of the most famous and quintessential themes of the Kalighat tradition, the ‘Babu and Bibi’. Originating in 19th-century Kolkata, this motif was historically used to document, and often gently satirize, the opulent, Western-influenced lifestyles of wealthy Bengali elites (Babus) and their wives or courtesans (Bibis).
Kalighat Painting is a traditional folk art form from Kolkata, West Bengal, known for its bold brushstrokes, expressive figures, and minimalistic compositions. It is characterized by strong flowing outlines, vibrant colours and themes ranging from Hindu mythology to social satire and scenes of everyday urban life.
The composition is centered entirely on the intimate, flirtatious interaction between the standing couple. On the left stands the Babu, a picture of aristocratic flair. He wears a tailored black tunic with a white dhoti. He is accessorized with a black hat featuring a prominent curved feather, and wears European-style black shoes, highlighting the fusion of cultures.
To his right stands the Bibi, leaning slightly back in a posture of coy elegance. She is draped in a bright pink saree featuring a wide golden border with intricate cross-hatching, and a crisp white scalloped edge that traces the fabric's curve. She is heavily adorned with multiple strands of white pearls, gold armlets, bangles and delicate anklets.
Both figures possess the iconic Kalighat facial features, sharp profiles, prominent noses and large, sweeping almond eyes that lock in a shared, playful gaze. The Babu leans forward slightly, delicately touching the Bibi's wrist. In response, she raises her right hand, gracefully displaying the alta dye painted on her palm, a traditional symbol of feminine beauty and auspiciousness.
Grounding this interaction on the lower left is a wooden stool, hinting at a domestic interior setting without cluttering the scene. Directly above the couple is a decorative, semi-circular motif, featuring radiating white petals bordered in gold and black. Furthermore, the entire scene is framed by heavy, painted curtains, scalloped valances at the top and tasseled drapes dropping down the sides in shades of olive green, black and gold. This drawn-curtain motif reinforces the stage-like, voyeuristic nature of the Kalighat Babu-Bibi paintings.
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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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Delivery Timelines and Returns +
Returns and Replacements
We offer replacements or repairs if your artwork arrives damaged or has a quality issue. As each artwork is handcrafted, we do not accept returns or refunds for orders received in the expected condition.
Delivery Timeline
This artwork will be Made to Order and will take
3 weeks
to be made and shipped.
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.
Colour Disclaimer+
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.