AstaGuru’s recently concluded ‘Collectors’ Choice’ auction witnessed remarkable results for two rare and historically significant offerings by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, reaffirming his enduring legacy and cultural resonance. Lot no 5, an extraordinary archival lot of 35 handwritten letters with 14 envelopes that Tagore penned to sociologist Dhurjati Prasad Mukerji, sold for ₹5,90,00,000. Written between 1927 and 1936, the letters offered deep insight into the poet’s creative evolution, philosophical reflections, and transition from literary to visual expression.
Dhurjati Prasad Mukerji was a leading intellectual of his time and a pioneering figure in Indian sociology, associated with the Lucknow School of Thought. His academic work was deeply rooted in Indian cultural traditions, and his long-standing relationship with Tagore was based on a shared commitment to education, philosophy, and nation-building. The letters exchanged between the two are more than personal correspondence—they serve as rare historical documents capturing the exchange of ideas between two of India’s greatest minds during a transformative period in the country’s history. The result is especially significant considering the lot was not a visual artwork but a manuscript- based archive and yet became the second-highest price ever achieved for a Rabindranath Tagore creation at auction. The collection’s emotional candour, combined with its scholarly
value and provenance, captivated collectors and institutions alike.
Lot no. 2, ‘The Heart’, the only sculpture ever executed by Rabindranath Tagore sold for INR 1,04,52,210. This emotionally charged and deeply personal object not only expands the understanding of Tagore’s artistic practice but also offers a rare glimpse into his inner world during a formative period.
Commenting on the results, Sneha Gautam, Director at AstaGuru said, “We are deeply honoured to have presented these rare and intimate creations by Rabindranath Tagore. The overwhelming response to both lots—particularly the extraordinary result achieved by the letters—reinforces the growing recognition of archival and manuscript-based material as valuable cultural artefacts. These works offer not just collectible value, but living, breathing connections to India’s intellectual and artistic heritage.” With these historic sales, AstaGuru once again affirms its position as a leading platform for culturally significant treasures and continues its commitment to preserving and presenting India’s artistic legacy to a global audience.
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