Notes

The present lot is a preliminary study for the 10 meter wide Otjitambi Frieze which is widely regarded as Fritz Krampe’s most successful work. Each example in this series demonstrates a strong compositional concept and "rhythmical grouping with strongly articulated movements of the individual figures."¹

The panel depicts a line of cattle with herdsmen, likely referring to the Himba scenes of the Kaokoveld (Namibia), although the big-horned cattle may have come to be inspired by the Ankole cattle Krampe Krampe encountered on his travels through Uganda.

The preliminary works for Otjitambi Frieze include sketches, drawings and two oil paintings with variations on the same theme. The smaller, rougher version in oil is dated 1958 and is followed by the present lot, which is a larger and more detailed version executed in 1959. The reverse of this canvas reveals another frieze which is a slight variation of the central leaping bull theme depicted in the final Otjitambi frieze, described as "an excellent portrayal in stronger colouring."²

The front [of the current lot] shows a drive of cattle, seven animals in all and two herdsmen. Although the cattle are depicted fairly flat, they are species specific in movement with identifying features notable in their head postures, horn variations as well as hide markings.

“The cattle proceed ‘peacefully’, only the centre of the scene is subject to a stronger articulation in the foremost row on account of the dynamic portrayal of the left herdsman. The animal under his immediate control transfers these dynamics by means if its raised head.”³

1. Peter Strack (2007). Timeless Encounters: Fritz Krampe, A Painter's Life in Africa, Windhoek: Kuiseb Verlag. Page 91.
2. ibid.
3. ibid.

 

Provenance

The Late Peter and Regina Strack Collection.

Literature

cf. Nico Roos (1978). Art in South West Africa, Pretoria: JP van der Walt & Seun (Edms) Bpk. A similar example is illustrated on page 157.

Peter Strack (2007). Timeless Encounters: Fritz Krampe, A Painter's Life in Africa, Windhoek: Kuiseb Verlag. Illustrated in colour on pages 92 and 93.