Pascale Marthine Tayou

Galleria Continua, San Gimignano

Acquired from the above by the present owner in 2014

The present lot is a striking example of Cameroonian artist Pascale Marthine Tayou’s intricate and rich charcoal constructions. Using a carefully orchestrated pattern of charcoal and other found commonplace materials, Charcoal L, blurs the line between drawing and sculpture whilst inviting viewers to contemplate themes of identity, culture, and human connection. In these complex productions, Tayou transforms a seemingly humble material into a multi-layered and thematically dense oeuvre that transcends the limitations of charcoal as a material.

Tayou expertly balances whimsicality and playfulness in his use of found objects, with a desire to explore the real, often dangerous experiences of individuals moving through our modern world. His signature playfulness in his craftsmanship sees him transform everyday discarded objects into poignant and deeply moving works, to be used as catalysts for discussion about the wider issues of our world, especially in relation to his own African identity.

Born in 1966, Tayou’s impressive oeuvre has reached a broad global audience, taking part in a number of prestigious major international exhibitions and events, such as Documenta 11 (2002) and the Venice Biennale (2005 and 2009).