The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in Delhi’s Saket is always well worth a visit – the current retrospective exhibion of the work of Gulammohammed Sheikh is beautifully curated and presented.
But there is another reason to head there in the coming week.
And it is this one painting.
Mary Magdalene in Ecstasy by Caravaggio.
This is the first time that a Caravaggio has ever been on display in India, which is reason enough to go see it. But there is also an intriguing back story to this painting…
So not only a first in India but a painting that has only recently come to public attention.
The paining is displayed, on its own, in a darkened room, with velvet curtains protecting her, adding to the reverential air.
I was delighted to see “Mary Magdalene in Ecstasy” but at the risk of sounding a bit pricey, it does not rank as one of my favourite Caraveggios, though the artist’s trademark use of almost theatrical light is stunning.
Delhi friends – do yourself a favour and go visit the KNMA. Definitely see this one painting if you only have a wee bit of time.
It is on display until the end of this month, although initially the closing date was supposed to be 18 May, but we are benefitiing from an extension – so do go!
Admission is free, which is amazing.