The First Oleograph From Raja Ravi Varma’s New Press In 1894
A rare Raja Ravi Varma’s Birth of Shakuntala, the first oleograph that came out of the newly installed press of 1894. This oleo is from the first edition of the then newly commissioned press, the Raja Ravi Varma Fine Arts Lithograph Press (or FAL Press) in 1894. The oleograph is now known to be the only one in existence from the first batch of 1894.
Making it very likely the rarest of the Raja Ravi Varma oleographs. Raja Ravi Varma did the artwork for this print on the heavy litho stones, the new German steam press of that period was set in motion for the printing. This first edition oleograph is almost exactly like its oil painting by Raja Ravi Varma.
It is evident in this oleograph since it has far superior details compared to all other Ravi Varma’s oleographs. Although the photos shown here do not seem to do justice to the beauty of this print. Raja Ravi Varma had insisted on using the 14 litho stones which was the complete set for the printing to get the desired finish close to that of his painting.
This detailed printing process continued only to the next series (second edition) which was the Laxmi oleograph. It was then subsequently discontinued due to labour and cost involved in producing the prints. Thus, the number of litho stones was cut down to a mere 7 stones. Considering its age of 129 years, this oleograph was not in perfect condition. It was expertly restored by the well-known art conservator Mrs Rupika Chawla, she did a remarkable job by restoring it to its almost original condition.
Mrs Chawla had also provided the letter of authenticity for this rare 1894 RRV oleograph after its restoration. For those who may be unfamiliar with Mrs Rupika Chawla, she is a reputed art conservator, author, and expert on Raja Ravi Varma. Her book “Raja Ravi Varma: Painter of Colonial India” became a bestseller. This Birth of Shakuntala oleograph came with its original thick wooden frame and glass. Dimensions of this huge print with the frame is 3½ x 2½ ft (104 x 73 cm)., without the frame the print measures 3 x 2 ft (91.4 x 60 cm)., it weighs 10 kg (with frame).
Also read – Raja Ravi Varma’s Oleographs, and Raja Ravi Varma: When the Gods Came Home.
See posts – Raja Ravi Varma’s Portrait Photo – Old Postcard 1904., and Raja Ravi Varma’s Wife Bhageerathi Bayi, Rare 1870 Photo.
Did You Know – Raja Ravi Varma passed away in 1906 at the age of 58 because of diabetes. He was so newsworthy even then that many international and Indian news agencies camped at Kilimanoor on his dying days recording his last moments.
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