Sayed Haider Raza (1922–2016) was a pioneering Indian modernist painter.

A co-founder of the Bombay Progressive Artists' Group, Raza and his contemporaries sought a new beginning for India following the end of British rule in 1947. Together they rejected the predominant influence of European realism and instead turned to a uniquely Indian perspective, or inner vision ('antar gyan' in Hindi), while embracing elements of modern art.

Raza's unique synthesis of these ideas and influences is the foundation of his oeuvre. His artwork is characterized by his expressive use of soulful colors, rich symbolism, and dynamic compositions that transcend the surface of his works.

Starting in the 1970s, Raza deepened his connection to his Indian roots by debuting his iconic "Bindu" series. Derived from Indian philosophy, the "Bindu," signified by a solid circle, represents the point of all creation and stands as the defining motif for this period of 're-birth', as defined by the artist. 

In this rich composition, Raza's "Bindu" adorns the center of the work, overlooking an expanse of bold lines and geometric shapes that express the strength and vitality of the tree. 

Raza's distinctive and stylized approach and philosophical influences call into question the innate connection between nature and the spiritual realm in abstraction.

In 2023, Raza's work was the subject of a major retrospective at Centre Pompidou, Paris. Today, Raza's work is represented in prestigious collections globally, including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal, and the National Museum of the American Indian (Washington).

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"Tree"

India, circa 2010

Lithograph 

Signed and numbered by the artist

From an edition of 150

43"H 22"W (work)

Very good condition.