Untitled X (Mother Teresa and Child) © Maqbool Husain 1980
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Key Takeaways
Maqbool Fida Husain's prints have shown significant strength in multiple global markets, with pairs or series of prints reaching over £8,000 at auction. His most sought-after collections, such as the Mother and Child series, have achieved prices exceeding £10,000. Rare and unique pieces, like his photographic series with hand-drawn elements, have reached even higher values, with a set of seven prints selling for £26,307 in 2010. Authentication requires examination of provenance, printing technique, and reference to gallery records. Given Husain's distinctive style and use of vibrant colours, condition assessment is crucial in determining a print's value, with particular attention paid to colour retention and paper quality. Strategic timing of sales, such as during major retrospectives or anniversaries, can optimise returns for sellers, as demonstrated by the surge in values around the centenary of Husain's birth and death.
Maqbool Fida Husain, often referred to as the "Picasso of India," was a prolific artist whose work spanned painting, printmaking, and film. His prints, much like his paintings, are characterised by bold lines, vibrant colours, and a unique fusion of Indian and Western artistic traditions. This guide aims to navigate the market for Husain's prints, offering insights into valuation, authentication, and strategy for those looking to sell.
Husain's artistic journey began in Mumbai, where he initially worked as a billboard painter before gaining recognition as a fine artist. His printmaking practice ranged from lithography to screenprinting, allowing him to capture both the delicacy of his artistic style and the emotional intensity of his chosen subjects in the print format. These subjects, including horses, women, and mythological figures, have become his signature, rendered in a style that blends elements of cubism with traditional Indian art forms. His work continues to be revered by collectors of modern Indian art.
How Much Do Maqbool Husain Prints For?
The market for Maqbool Husain's prints reflects his status as one of India's most celebrated modern artists. Prices for his prints can vary significantly based on factors such as rarity, and condition. Individual prints typically fetch between £1,000 and £5,000, with pairs or series of prints sometimes selling for over £8,000.
Husain's most popular print series, when sold together, achieve the highest values at auction. A complete collection of Mother And Child (1982), a print series that paid tribute to Mother Teresa and her compassion for children, sold for £10,000 at Sotheby’s in June 2000.
Prints featuring Husain's depictions of Hindu deities, mythological figures, and religious concepts also perform well in the market, both individually and as part of print collections. Collectors are attracted to those works that engage with Indian culture and heritage. An untitled print (1950) depicting ‘Yatra,’ or pilgrimage, sold for over £10,934 in 2013. Similarly, another pair of untitled prints, created in 1958, that also feature reverent religious imagery, sold for £11,090 in April 2019.
The set of prints that have achieved the highest value sale at auction to date, however, is set apart from Husain’s usual style. Rather than demonstrating his raw, Cubist, illustrative style, the prints feature black and white photographs of a naked woman, whom Husain has drawn on or around with black pen, contorting her body in various poses. In one of the photographs, Husain himself can be seen drawing on the floor around her. The prints, before sale, were in the collection owned by Mrs Harry N. Abrams, wife of the prominent art book publisher. The set of seven prints from 1975 sold for £26,307, after receiving a high estimate of just £592.
Another popular print edition is the five-piece Cow Umbrella Plus Lantern Minus A Shoe Is Equal To Man And Woman (c.1967). Prints like these, which are considered as one single artwork, are always more valuable when sold as a set. In 2013, this piece sold for £19,880, nearly four times its high estimate.
The market for Husain's prints has shown consistent growth over the past decades, with particular interest from collectors in India, the Middle East, and the global Indian diaspora. Many of his highest-value print sales have been in North America. This international demand has contributed to the steady appreciation of his print works, making them attractive assets for both collectors and investors.
How Do You Authenticate a Maqbool Husain Print?
Authenticating a Maqbool Fida Husain print requires a comprehensive approach that considers various aspects of the work's provenance, physical characteristics, and historical context. The process begins with a thorough examination of the print's history of ownership and exhibition. Any documentation, such as certificates of authenticity, gallery receipts, or correspondence related to the print, can provide valuable evidence of its legitimacy.
While there is no single definitive catalogue raisonné for Husain's prints, several important resources can aid in authentication. Major galleries that represented Husain during his lifetime, such as the DAG, Vadehra Art Gallery, and Grosvenor Gallery in London, often have detailed documentation of the editions they published.
Technical analysis of the print can be an important part of the authentication process when scholarly records are limited. Husain used high-quality papers and inks throughout his career, and understanding the characteristics of these materials will assist in establishing the authenticity of a print. For his screenprints, Husain often preferred thick, textured papers that could withstand multiple layers of ink. The printing process itself, whether screenprinting or lithography, should be consistent with Husain's known practices for the period in which the print was produced. If printer stamps or markings are visible on the print, verifying the involvement of any print studios of publishes can provide additional evidence of authenticity, although Husain’s specific print collaborations are not always known.
Edition & Signature
Maqbool Fida Husain's approach to signing and numbering his prints evolved throughout his career, reflecting changes in his artistic practice and the printmaking technologies he employed. In his earlier screenprints and lithographs, Husain typically signed his surname in pencil on the lower right of the print, often incorporating the year of creation. In his later screenprints, Husain often added the title of the print to the lower right corner, sometimes instead of his signature. But, when it appears, his signature is always characteristically fluid and expressive.
Edition numbers are usually found on the lower left, written as a fraction (e.g., 75/100). Husain's print editions varied in size, with some limited to as few as 50 copies, while others reached 250 or more, particularly for his later prints. Artist's proofs, marked “A.P.” or “E.A.” (épreuve d'artiste), are highly sought after by collectors, due to their limited number and nuanced details, and generally achieve higher prices.
Given the artist's immense popularity and the high values his works command, forgeries do exist in the market. Therefore, consultation with experts who specialise in Husain's work is often necessary to verify these details and confirm the print's authenticity.
Browse Maqbool Husain prints on the Trading Floor and find out more about the print market growth on the MAB100 Print Index.
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Has Your Maqbool Husain Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
Deterioration of your print’s condition can negatively impact its sale value; equally, perfectly preserved prints will have a higher estimated value. To keep your print in the best condition possible, there are several things you can do. Ideally, prints should be kept in acid-free environments, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If framed, UV-protective glass and acid-free matting are recommended to prevent light damage and acid migration. When you handle your print, make sure you are always wearing clean cotton gloves.
Before you can sell your print, its condition should be examined professionally to maximise the potential sale value and ensure the eventual buyer is happy with their purchase. We would recommend getting a condition report from a professional appraiser who is familiar with Husain’s work. They will begin by examining the paper for any signs of damage or ageing. Discolouration, foxing, or acid burn, may be particularly visible around the edges. Husain used high-quality, acid-free papers for his prints, including fine Indian handmade papers known for their durability and texture. These papers, while generally resistant to degradation, can still be affected by environmental factors over time.
Colour retention is particularly important for Husain's prints, given the central role of bold, saturated hues in his work. His screenprints, which make up a significant portion of his print portfolio, are known for their rich, layered colours. However, the inks used in screenprinting, and lithography, can be susceptible to fading if exposed to direct sunlight or harsh artificial light over extended periods. Any noticeable colour shift or loss of vibrancy can alter the subtle tonal variations or balance of contrast in the print, significantly impacting the print's value.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Maqbool Husain print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Maqbool Husain Print?
While Husain's work maintains consistent appeal among collectors of modern Indian art, certain circumstances can create particularly favourable conditions for sellers. Major exhibitions or retrospectives of Husain's work often generate increased interest and media coverage, potentially driving up demand and prices for his prints. For example, the comprehensive retrospective M.F. Husain: Horses of the Sun at the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Qatar in 2019 generated renewed interest in Husain’s work in the UAE.
Anniversary years related to significant moments in Husain's life and career can also create opportune selling moments. Born in 1915 and died in 2011, the centenary of Husain’s birth and his death occurred within just a few years of each other. This time was rich with exhibitions and celebrations of his works, including displays at the V&A in London and the Sovereign Gallery in Dubai. This combination of events also led to a pattern of near-record sales, including the £19,880 sale of Cow Umbrella Plus Lantern Minus A Shoe Is Equal To Man And Woman (c.1967), the £10,934 sale of an untitled depiction of Yatra (1950), and the sale of another untitled print that achieved nearly ten times its high estimate in 2013.
Sellers should also stay abreast of broader trends in the art market, particularly those related to modern Indian art and the global recognition of non-Western modernisms. Surges of interest in these areas can create a favourable environment for selling Husain's prints. For instance, the growing presence of Indian art at international art fairs and biennales has contributed to increased global awareness and appreciation of artists like Husain.
Keep an eye on major auction results for Husain's paintings, as these can have a ripple effect on the print market. A record-breaking sale of a Husain canvas can renew interest in his work across all mediums, potentially boosting print values. The record-breaking £2million sale of Untitled (Reincarnation) (1957) in September 2024 is expected to have a positive impact on print sales over the course of the next year.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Maqbool Husain Print?
Selling a Maqbool Husain Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in modern Indian art or South Asian prints can offer a more personalised approach to selling a Husain print. These professionals often have established networks of collectors interested in modern Indian art and can facilitate private sales with a level of personalisation, speed, and efficiency that public auctions don't provide. Brokers can be particularly effective for selling Husain prints that might appeal to a specific subset of collectors, such as those focused on his religious or mythological themes. Working with a broker typically involves lower fees compared to auction houses, generally ranging from 10% to 20%. While you might miss out on the broader exposure that public auctions provide, the expertise and network of a knowledgeable broker can be invaluable, especially for mid-range Husain prints. When choosing a broker, look for those with a proven track record in handling Husain's work and a deep understanding of the market for modern Indian prints. Their expertise can be invaluable in positioning your print effectively and reaching the right collectors.
Selling a Maqbool Husain Via Auction House
Major auction houses such as Christie's, Sotheby's, and Bonhams regularly feature Maqbool Fida Husain's work in their South Asian art sales, offering sellers a global sales platform. These prestigious institutions leverage their extensive networks and marketing expertise to attract serious collectors from around the world, particularly from India, the Middle East, and the global Indian diaspora. The competitive atmosphere of a live auction can drive prices higher than initially estimated. The prestige of the traditional auction can also be beneficial for high-value Husain prints, and their ability to contextualise Husain's work within the broader spectrum of modern Indian art can enhance its appeal to collectors. However, selling through an auction house comes with certain considerations. Fees to cover marketing and auction placement can be substantial, often reaching 25% of the hammer price. There's also the inherent unpredictability of auctions; your piece might exceed expectations or fail to meet its reserve price. You'll have limited control over the timing and presentation of the sale, as you'll need to adhere to the auction house's schedule and cataloguing process. For high-value Husain prints, particularly rare early works or complete portfolios, the auction route can be highly effective. However, ensure you understand the terms of consignment and any associated costs before proceeding.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Maqbool Husain Via Online Marketplace
Online art marketplaces have grown significantly in popularity in recent years, offering a platform for sellers to reach a global audience of art enthusiasts and collectors. These digital venues can be effective for more accessible Husain prints, providing an opportunity for quick sales with lower fees compared to traditional channels. Online platforms allow you to control the listing details and pricing, with tools for showcasing high-quality images and detailed descriptions of the work. However, selling high-value artworks online comes with challenges. There's a risk of undervaluing the work due to platform limitations, and the lack of expert curation can make it difficult for exceptional pieces to stand out. Authentication concerns are also more pronounced in the online space, given the existence of forgeries in the market. For Husain prints of significant value or rarity, online marketplaces should be approached with caution. If considering this route, opt for specialised platforms that focus on fine art prints and have robust authentication processes in place. These platforms are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide the necessary security measures for high-value transactions. While online marketplaces can be an effective option for more modestly priced Husain prints, they may not provide the level of expertise and targeted marketing that traditional auction houses or specialist brokers can offer for significant pieces. Carefully weigh the potential for a wider audience against the risks and limitations of online sales when deciding whether this is the right avenue for your Husain print.
Why Sell Your Maqbool Husain with MyArtBroker
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces. Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller's Fees, 100% of the Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, we provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Read our cohesive report to navigate the art market as a seller: A Guide to Selling Prints in the Current Market.
Maqbool Husain Collection Management with MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
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