Lilanga, George (1934-2005), Wooden sculpture of a blue figure, c. 1995

George Lilanga(1934 Kikwetu - 2005 Dar es Salaam), Sculpture of a blue figure , around 1995. Polychrome wood, 72 cm (height) x 22 cm (width) x 20 cm (depth), signed on label on carved base plate.

- Stress crack and slight paint flaking on back, otherwise in very good condition.

- Grown over the head -

George Lilanga, who originally trained as a Makonde carver, takes up the Shetani spirits belonging to Makonde mythology in this sculpture and creates a bizarre, grotesque figure that seems to be stretching its own head. The mouth is wide open, revealing two huge exposed teeth, the ears stick out and the eyes are twisted. A permanent state of affect that is further intensified by the intensely bright colors. Yet the eerie and frightening creature is simultaneously banished and tamed by the artwork, making it appear almost comical. As a transformation of mythological tradition, however, the figure is also a metaphor for one's own existence and the “absurdity” of life, and thus also a work of modern art.

About the artist

George Lilanga di Nyama (1934-2005) was an important Tanzanian sculptor and painter of the Makonde people and is considered one of the most important representatives of contemporary East African art. After training as a Makonde woodcarver, he moved to Dar es Salaam in 1972 and worked at the Nyumba ya Sanaa art center.

In 1980, he was strongly influenced by the Tingatinga school and developed his own distinctive style based on this. He combined traditional Makonde carving with colourful designs for the first time and created paintings and painted wooden sculptures. His works often depict figures from Makonde mythology (Shetani spirits), but also contain socially critical and caricaturing elements.

Lilanga, considered the “Picasso of Africa,” was a style-defining artist who combined traditional African art with modern individuality.