Journal Issues

Abstract

This research paper explores the reasons that drive the price of a painting at auction houses. After some time in the market, the record for every painting is broken in terms of price and every time a new record is set. It is very important for art collectors, investors and enthusiasts to know the factors that drive the price of paintings so that they can understand them and do better work in the future. This paper examines several key influences, including the artist's reputation, historical significance, rarity, provenance, market trends and buyers' behavior. Firstly, the artist's fame plays a very important role in increasing the price of the painting. The artwork by famous artists such as Picasso and Van Gogh is highly valued because of their cultural importance and recognition. Secondly, The Historical context of a Painting, like the place in art history or relation to a major event, can uplift its price. The painting, which is different from all the other paintings in terms of technique, color or theme, its price automatically increases in the market due to the limited collection of artworks. The trend of the market also influenced the price of a painting when there is a higher demand for an artist or its art style. The price of the painting increases in the market. Along with this, the competition also becomes tough among those who want to buy this painting, such as wealthy people, collectors, museums or investors. Before writing this research paper, the researcher studied the auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie thoroughly. The researcher also found that the painting made by the artist is not just an artwork, and there are efforts, story and emotions behind it, which he wants to show.

Keywords: Factors, Paintings, High Prices, Artist Reputation, Auction Houses, Record, Market Demand, Rarity, Historical significance.

Abstract

Raja Ravi Varma was a true gem among Indian artists, the one who first introduced vibrant oil colours to the country. His contributions to Indian art are so immense that words can hardly do them justice. He revolutionised the way we use oil paints today by weaving together India’s rich cultural heritage with European artistic techniques, creating a unique style that left an indelible mark on Indian art history.

Born into the royal family of Travancore, Raja Ravi Varma was drawn to drawing and painting from a young age. His family saw his passion and nurtured it, giving him the freedom to explore his talent in fresh, innovative ways. Though he never travelled to Europe, he absorbed European techniques right here in India. A pivotal moment came when Theodore Jensen, a British painter, visited the Travancore court and shared his oil paintings and European materials with Varma. This encounter sparked something extraordinary.

Raja Ravi Varma became renowned for his distinctive approach, using European methods to bring Indian stories to life. He was particularly inspired by the European technique of chiaroscuro, mastered by artists who used light and shadow to create depth and drama. Varma adopted this technique to make his paintings feel vivid and lifelike, with light dancing across faces and fabrics, adding a sense of richness and dimension. Thanks to the influence of European artists, his work carried a bold, global flair while staying deeply rooted in Indian narratives.

Keywords: Raja Ravi Varma, Influence, Europe, Indian and European Artists, Indian culture, Main features