Anton van Wouw

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with some minor wear to the patina consistent with age. There is a visible casting plug to the proper left hip. There is some minor dirt in the crevices.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Anton van Wouw was the sculptor of indigenous South Africans par excellence. Van Wouw was born in Driebergen, Holland in 1862, moving to Pretoria at the age of 28. Despite having taken classes in art at the Rotterdam Academy, it was some time before van Wouw gained commissions in South Africa, a country in which there were few opportunities for sculptors at the time. Van Wouw is today regarded as being the father of South African sculpture. Some of his most celebrated pieces are his sensitive depictions of the tribesman's way of life, exemplified by the evocative Dagga-smoker and The Skapu Player.

RELATED LITERATURE
Pierneef Van Wou. Paintings and sculptures by two South African Masters, ex. cat. Kunsstigting Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannesburg, 1980