The first solo exhibition of noted painter M F Husain, showcasing some of his rare works of art, has opened in London.

Inaugurating the exhibition on Tuesday night, Indian High Commissioner to the UK Kamalesh Sharma said Husain is the greatest modern Indian artist.

"Husain's career and success mirrors closely the meteoric rise of contemporary Indian art on the international stage," Sharma said.

The exhibition, held at the Asia House Gallery, shows some of the rarest works of art from Husain's private collection and it will last till August 5, 2006.

It will feature a selection of Husain's paintings from the 50s to 70s.

Drawing upon well known artistic conventions, myths and history, Husain is able to connect with the widest audience.

Subjects in the exhibition include dancers, musicians and his famous powerful, heroic horses.

"This is an exciting and not to be missed exhibition of early and rarely seen work from India's leading artist. The UK places Asia House and its headquarters at the forefront of business and cultural interaction between India and the UK," Stefan Koscluszko, Chief Executive of Asian House Gallery said.

"We are honoured to be engaged in this manner at such an important time in India's development as a nation with so much to offer globally."