Composition - MCM Abstract Oil Painting on Canvas by Abu Taher

This is an abstract oil painting on canvas titled "Composition" by the artist Abu Taher, born in 1936. The artwork is characterized by bold, impasto brushstrokes and a vibrant, yet somewhat muted, color palette. The composition appears highly dynamic, featuring a central cluster of dark, rich tones including deep purples, blues, and blacks, which are surrounded by lighter, more effervescent hues of greens, yellows, and whites. There are strong textural elements visible, indicative of thickly applied paint, which creates a three-dimensional effect on the canvas surface. Specific shapes are difficult to discern, as is typical of abstract art, but there's a sense of movement and energy through the interplay of colors and forms. The painting is signed by the artist in the lower right corner. Based on provided context, the painting was created in 1985, placing it within the late 20th-century modern art period, specifically aligning with Mid-Century Modern (MCM) artistic sensibilities as suggested by the lot description. The condition appears stable from the image, exhibiting typical characteristics of an oil painting of its age including a subtle patina. No obvious signs of significant damage such as tears, punctures, or extensive paint loss are visible. The craftsmanship suggests a confident handling of the medium, with layered application of paint contributing to its visual depth.

Based on my examination of the provided images and documentation, this oil on canvas titled 'Composition' is a strong example of Abu Taher's work from the mid-1980s. The painting exhibits the artist's characteristic use of thick impasto and a dynamic, abstract composition, consistent with his established style. The signature in the lower right, and the handwritten details on the verso noting the artist, title, date (1985), and original price (Tk 10,500), appear period-appropriate. The overall condition seems good for its age, with no visible tears or significant paint loss, though a subtle patina is noted. The current market for works by prominent Bangladeshi modernists like Abu Taher is solid, with a growing international interest. Comparables would include auction results for his other oil paintings from the 1980s and 1990s, which have fetched prices in the low to mid-thousands of dollars. This piece's size and vibrant composition contribute positively to its value. The original price, equivalent to approximately $350 USD in 1985, provides historical context but has little bearing on its current fair market value. A significant limitation of this appraisal is that it is based solely on images. Full authentication would require in-person examination to assess the canvas, stretcher, and paint surface more closely for age and consistency. Verifying the signature against known examples and establishing a clear chain of ownership (provenance) would be crucial for solidifying its market value and confirming authenticity beyond any doubt.