About the Artwork +
This Kalighat painting by Uttam Chitrakar offers a brilliant, classic rendition of the traditional Babu-Bibi theme, seamlessly blending 19th-century folk art techniques with a poignant portrayal of romantic companionship. Originating near the Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, this art style has historically been celebrated for its ability to capture social trends, satire and changing domestic dynamics with absolute economy of line. This refreshing interpretation captures an elegant couple thoroughly absorbed in a shared, intimate ritual.
They sit upon a traditional wooden daybed to form a warm, unified physical silhouette, while resting against a massive, white bolster pillow. The man, positioned on the left, holds his arm steady to grasp the upper handle of a slender black torch, his face turned toward his companion with a subtle, content expression. He is dressed in a white long-sleeve kurta accented with a simple neckline, paired with a clean, pleated dhoti, both having a black border. A fringed orange and white shawl drapes over his shoulder, adding movement and texture to his attire as his other hand tenderly offers a fresh blossom.
The woman stands on the right, leaning into his embrace. She is beautifully attired in a festive, bright pink sari adorned with a black-and-white patterned border that accentuates her form. Her hair is neatly tied back, flowing down her shoulder, while her elongated, stylized almond eyes look knowingly toward her partner. Her arms and neck are heavily ornamented with traditional white pearl jewellery, and her right hand rises gracefully to support the base of the torch.
Igniting the frame from between the couple is a stylized, blazing flame, completing the cozy scene. Painted in a vibrant orange, the torch fire flares upward with clean, sharp lines, playfully mimicking the warmth and intensity of the couple's shared bond. In classical Kalighat iconography, the domestic setting, here framed by heavy, theatrical curtains at the top, often acts as a silent, knowing witness to the whims and romances of elite life, making the shared handling of the single flame a clever, symbolic nod to shared responsibility and passion in modern household spaces.
The painting features the Kalighat school's signature bold outlines, using thick, sweeping strokes to give the figures their rounded, volumetric presence. The color palette relies on a striking contrast between the cool tones against the vibrant red and gold-yellow garments, all highlighted by meticulous white line-work on the textiles and accessories. By documenting a timeless slice of romantic daily life through centuries-old folk art conventions, this piece beautifully honors the living, evolving spirit of Bengal’s regional art heritage.
Authentication and Certification +
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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Sizes, Framing and Customisation +
The sizes mentioned are excluding the borders of the artwork. Frames shown are for visual representation only and are not included with the artwork.
Customisation
Most artworks can be customised in terms of colours, size and elements to fit your requirements.
For custom artwork orders, please use the WhatsApp chat below or email us at
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Framing Services
No, we currently sell artworks unframed (unless explicitly mentioned otherwise) and do not provide framing services.
Shipping and Taxes +
We ship worldwide. All artworks are handmade and couriered securely in transit safe packaging sutaible for the artwork.
Domestic Orders
All prices are inclusive of GST and applicable Indian taxes.
- We offer free shipping on orders above ₹1999 for all artworks, except Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri.
- A flat shipping rate of ₹499 applies to orders below ₹1999.
Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri
Shipping is charged on a per-kilogram basis, due to the delicate and bulky nature of these items.
International Orders
- A flat shipping charge of ₹4,000 applies to international artwork orders.
- Customs duties, taxes, or import charges in the buyer’s country are not included and must be borne by the buyer.
- Shipping rates for Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri artworks will be calculated based on weight.
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 35 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
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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
2-3 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.