Lot 31: Susanne Wenger (Austrian, 1915-2009) 'Man and Leopard I'

'Man and Leopard I'
inscribed with title, signed and annotated 'Wenger / 13' (verso)
oil on panel
68.6 x 88.9cm (27 x 35in).

Susanne Wenger arrived in Nigeria from Austria in 1950 and remained there for the rest of her life. She spent six decades living and working in Osogbo, in the heart of the Yoruba region of Nigeria where she was unique in her absorption of traditional African religion.

In 1950 at the age of 35 Wenger had met the Ajagemo, high priest of Obatala (the creator god), who introduced her to Yoruba religion. Wenger when talking about her art and residency in Osogbo stated that:

"They understand my painting as another way of serving Obatala. Here for the first time in my life I feel part of the society for which I work."