Mona Lisa and Manuj Babu
Manuj Babu Mishra, 1990s
Oil on canvas
90 × 120 cm (framed)

© Prithivi Bahadur Pande

Mishra’s fantasies of the Monalisa began in the 1990s following a workshop at which artists were requested to paint their version of the Monalisa. This opened a new chapter in his life. His passion for the Monalisa compelled him to research extensively on Leonardo da Vinci, the creator of the iconic Monalisa. His obsession with this subject led to innumerable paintings, sometimes alone, sometimes portraying himself, sometimes featuring devilish and grotesque creations. He lovingly called her Pokchi, a Nepali term of endearment. Having been raised in a conservative society, and during period in which public expressions of emotion were taboo, this relationship may also be understood as the unexpressed love and affection for his spouse. His depictions of the Monalisa are clearly inspired by his wife, and feature her jewellery, beads, clothes and her idiosyncrasies. All his Monalisa compositions maintain the essence of the original, depicted out of doors and with an exquisite expression. Brightening his pallet to suit his moods and by way of her garments and jewellery, he does, however, emphasize her typical Nepali features.
- Swosti Rajbhandari Kayastha