Shepherd

The artwork presents a simple yet vivid scene of rural life, depicting a village shepherd seated on a buffalo while playing the flute. Sanyal’s interest in ordinary people and rural communities is evident in the subject. The shepherd, dressed only in a red dhoti, conveys simplicity and an unadorned rural existence. His relaxed posture and flute-playing suggest a peaceful, everyday moment. The vibrant yellow background, along with trees and shrubs, establishes a warm village atmosphere. Strong contours and vivid colours define the simplified forms and create visual depth. The stylised anatomy of the shepherd and buffalo reflects Sanyal’s understanding of structure, while the simplified forms recall Cézanne’s influence. Sanyal transforms an ordinary rural moment into a dignified and poetic representation of everyday life.