In the midst of World War II in 1939, a renowned Polish artist and his actress wife made a desperate decision. As German tanks rolled into Poland, Stefan Norblin and Lena sold their jewelry to escape their homeland. This act of sacrifice led them on a remarkable journey that would intertwine their destinies with India and produce a legacy of breathtaking art that continues to inspire today.
A Fateful Departure
The couple left behind their dream home and a lifetime of artistic achievements in search of safety. Their journey took them through Romania, Turkey and Iraq, ultimately leading them to colonial India, where they would spend the next six years. This unexpected stopover became a crucial chapter in both their lives and the history of Indian art.
A Collaboration with Royalty
Between 1941 and 1946, several Indian maharajas commissioned Norblin to transform their palaces with stunning paintings and interior designs in the emerging art deco style. This modernist movement, characterized by innovation and a celebration of technology, found a unique expression in Norblin’s work as he blended Western aesthetics with Indian iconography.
Norblin’s artistry flourished during this period. His paintings depicted vibrant murals of Hindu deities, scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as India’s majestic wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. His artworks are housed in significant locations such as the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Rajasthan and the palace of the rulers of Morbi in Gujarat.
Influential Commissions
One of Norblin’s notable commissions was from Maharaja Mahendrasinhji of Morbi, who sought to create a new palace adorned with art deco elements. This request aligned perfectly with Norblin’s skill set, allowing him to produce expansive murals and intricate designs that showcased the confluence of Eastern and Western artistic traditions.
Norblin’s signature style is defined by grand, colorful murals that radiate energy and emotion. He captured recognizable traits of art deco, including elongated figures, geometric shapes, and bold colors, while infusing these elements with traditional Indian imagery. His portrayal of Hindu gods, especially in murals at the Umaid Bhawan Palace, reflects a deep reverence for Indian culture.
The Legacy of Norblin’s Art
Norblin’s talent shone through in various palatial commissions. At Umaid Bhawan Palace, he created awe-inspiring murals that depict the goddess Durga, renowned for her ferocity and power, often illustrated riding a lion and wielding various weapons. One striking portrayal transforms Durga into a figure reminiscent of an Egyptian princess, while another captures her as a shadowy silhouette.
In addition to Durga, Norblin painted a series of six murals in the Oriental Room, illustrating pivotal scenes from the Ramayana, including the abduction of Sita by Ravana and her trial by fire to prove her chastity. His artistry extended to the design of entire rooms, creating harmonious environments that merged the cultural essence of India with modernist aesthetics.
The Challenges of Recognition
Despite his prolific contributions, Norblin’s works began to deteriorate over time due to neglect, heat, and humidity. However, efforts by the Polish government have led to their restoration, and exhibitions have been held to reintroduce his art to the public. Nevertheless, much of Norblin’s legacy remained obscured after his departure from India.
Following their years in India, the Norblins moved to America, but the artistic community in San Francisco was not as receptive. Struggling to find commissions, Stefan’s vision was hindered by deteriorating eyesight due to glaucoma. Meanwhile, Lena, once a celebrated actress, had to support the family as a manicurist in a beauty salon.
A Tragic End
The challenges proved overwhelming for Norblin, leading him into a deep depression. In 1952, he made the heartbreaking decision to take his own life, believing he was becoming a burden to his family. With his death, the legacy of his Indian masterpieces faded into obscurity.
However, the 1980s brought renewed interest in Norblin’s work when art historian Claus-Ullrich Simon began to uncover and promote his contributions to Indian art. Despite this resurgence, the journey to fully recognize Norblin’s impact is ongoing.
