Lot 7: Susanne Wenger (Austrian, 1915-2009) Obatala and Songo 54 1/8 x 48 1/16in (137.5 x 122cm) unframed

Obatala and Songo
oil on board
54 1/8 x 48 1/16in (137.5 x 122cm)
unframed

PROVENANCE:
Acquired by the current owner from the Goethe Institute, Lagos, Oshogbo Artists, 1969

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 her art and residency in Osogbo stated that:

"They understand by 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."

In 1959 Wenger produced a series of prints on the subject of Obatala and Songo.