Jehangir Sabavala

Jehangir Sabavala (1922–2011) was a distinguished Indian modernist painter renowned for his serene, geometric landscapes that harmoniously blend Cubist structure with Impressionist light. Born into an affluent Parsi family in Bombay, he received his early education at the Cathedral and John Connon School and Elphinstone College, followed by a diploma from the Sir J. J. School of Art in 1944. Further honing his craft, Sabavala studied at prestigious European institutions, including the Heatherley School of Fine Art in London and the Académie André Lhote, Académie Julian, and Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris.

Over a prolific career spanning six decades, Sabavala held over 30 solo exhibitions and participated in numerous group shows worldwide. His works are characterized by luminous hues, tranquil compositions, and a mastery of light and shadow, often depicting solitary figures within vast, contemplative spaces. Recognized for his contributions to art, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 1977 and the Lalit Kala Ratna in 2007. Sabavala’s paintings are housed in esteemed collections, including the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi and the National Gallery of South Australia in Adelaide.