Kalk Bay

Literature

Dalene Marais (1994) Maggie Laubser: Her Paintings, Drawings and Graphics, Johannesburg and Cape Town: Perskor, illustrated in black and white on page 93, cat. no. 12, with the title Seascape with Cottage.

Provenance

Acquired from the artist by Mrs K Laubser, Strand.

Stephan Welz & Co, 1995-2005.

Notes

Maggie Laubser likely painted this view of Kalk Bay between 1903 and 1906. The subject is historically recognisable, framed by the mountainous backdrop of Simonstown. At this early stage in her career, the young artist worked in a representational manner typical of Cape painters of the period, such as Charles Crosland Robinson, Constance Penstone, Edward Roworth, and Hugo Naudé. While the brushwork carries a certain expressive looseness, the overall impression remains grounded in naturalistic observation.

During this time, Laubser received brief Following her studies at the Slade School of Art in England and subsequent exposure to German Expressionism, Laubser would go on to forge a distinctive style of her own – markedly different from the more traditional approach seen in early works like the present lot.

The character of Kalk Bay changed notably with the construction of its harbour wall and moorings in 1913. This development allowed vessels to be securely anchored, protecting them from the fierce coastal gales that frequently batter the area. In turn, this led to the growth of a thriving fishing village and related industries, capitalising on the rich marine resources of False Bay.

Today, Kalk Bay remains one of Cape Town’s most beloved coastal destinations, attracting tourists and day-trippers drawn to its charm and scenic beauty.