Bikash Bhattacharjee's Salvationist (1997) is an extraordinary and rare masterpiece that stands as a testament to the artist’s unparalleled command of the oil medium. The painting, which measures an impressive 165.1 x 198.12 cm (65 x 78 inches), is a large-scale work that demonstrates his ability to imbue large canvases with both intricate detail and profound thematic depth.

This monumental piece showcases Bhattacharjee's signature technique of realistic rendering, where every brushstroke enhances the textural quality, bringing out the minute details of the soldiers’ uniforms, the reflection of light, and the cold, austere landscape. The artist's technical skill is on full display as he manipulates light and shadow to create a realistic yet surreal composition. His careful layering of paint and meticulous attention to form create a dramatic sense of three-dimensionality, which draws the viewer into the eerie stillness of the scene.

What makes Salvationist especially rare is not only its thematic depth but also the size and scale, which is uncommon even among Bhattacharjee’s works. It is a piece that transcends simple representation, operating at the intersection of realism and symbolism. The repetitive, faceless soldiers hint at dehumanization and the loss of identity within systems of power, while the inclusion of a solitary animal juxtaposes life with the cold detachment of militarization, furthering the symbolic weight of the composition.

As a masterpiece, Salvationist is a significant work within Bhattacharjee’s oeuvre, embodying his exploration of socio-political themes while showcasing his extraordinary technical prowess. Its rarity, both in terms of size and thematic execution, elevates it as a critical piece in understanding the artist's legacy and the broader context of contemporary Indian art.

- Art News N Views