India, Jan. 7 -- There is an elaborate Maharashtrian pearl nath (nose ring), even longer pearl earrings, which extend with a hook behind the ears, the bun is decorated with an orange gajra (a string of flowers), and a shawl draped over a gorgeous sari - it's the portrait of Bal Gandharva (1888 - 1967), a legendary Marathi singer and actor known for playing leading female characters in Marathi musicals. He was also considered a fashion icon, known for his beautiful saris, which, according to some accounts, were custom-made. The portrait is painted in resplendent feminine glory by artist MV Dhurandhar (1867 - 1944).

The canvas is one of the highlights of Face to Face: A Portrait of a City, an exhibition of 30 paintings at the DAG Gallery, ...