“Sacred Stairway” by Abdur Rahman Chughtai documents an important aspect of the graphic production of the Pakistani artist. He is considered a central figure of modern art in the Indian subcontinent. Born in Lahore in 1897, Chughtai studied at the Mayo School of Art and developed a personal language influenced by Mughal miniatures, Persian art, Islamic tradition, and certain Art Nouveau suggestions. Furthermore, alongside watercolour painting, he also devoted careful attention to printmaking, achieving remarkable precision in line work.
In this etching on paper, the scene is constructed through a dense network of fine lines. The composition depicts a stairway animated by numerous figures, probably pilgrims or worshippers, arranged within an architectural space that suggests a place of devotion. However, the interest of the work lies not only in the religious subject, but also in Chughtai’s ability to transform the scene into a suspended and rhythmic image.
The darker and more defined left side introduces an architectural structure that guides the viewer’s gaze toward the centre. By contrast, the figures in the background are rendered with a lighter touch, creating depth and distance. Consequently, the work combines observation, spirituality, and formal synthesis. The presence of the stamp and label of the National Collection of Arts of Islamabad also adds a significant documentary element that enhances the value of the work.
Description: Etching on paper, signed in pencil lower left, titled lower right, bearing on the back the stamp and label of the “National Collection of Arts” of Islamabad, with author, title, technique, edition number 4, and dimensions, plate H cm 25×23 – with frame H cm 47×37.
Provenance: Private Collection – Bologna
Hammer Price: € 4.000,00
Auction 93 – April 28th 2026 – Dimore
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