George Keyt (1901-1993) Untitled (Friends)

George Keyt (1901-1993) Untitled (Friends) signed and dated 'G. Keyt 81' upper left gouache on card, framed 36.7 x 62cm (14 7/16 x 24 7/16in). Footnotes: Provenance Property from a private collection, UAE; Acquired from Lawsons, Fine Art, 16th December 2021, lot 530. Keyt worked with a variety of mediums, including oil on canvas, examples of which can be seen in the other lots on offer in this auction, ink on paper, and watercolours. However, he is also known for his drawings on cards, which are some of his most well-known and sought-after works. These drawings on card were a product of both his artistic vision and practical considerations. He was known for his small-scale works, and drawing on cards allowed him to create highly detailed and intricate works in a compact format. The small size of the cards also made them easy to handle and transport, which was important for Keyt, as he often travelled extensively throughout Sri Lanka and India. Another reason why Keyt drew on cards was that they allowed him to experiment with different techniques and mediums. Drawing on cards was a relatively inexpensive and accessible way for Keyt to explore different artistic styles and themes. These works feature portraits of people, including dancers, musicians, and other performers, mythological tales and religious themes from Hinduism and Buddhism and traditional Sri Lankan folk tales. The present lot features two friends both of whom are engrossed in their conversation and oblivious to their surroundings. Painted in his quintessential style with flowing and curvilinear forms, they are elegant and sensuous. To see a similar work sold in these rooms see Bonhams, Islamic and Indian Art including Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art, 22nd October 2019, lot. 231. This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: * * VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing