African Painting for Sale
In the past, African art has often taken the form of statues, bas-reliefs and objects, contemporary African painting is very diverse. Closely linked to symbolism, African painting stands out because of the frequent use of very pronounced lines and perfect symmetry. Body painting is also common in African countries, but the continent is also home to wooden objects from the 10th century and bronze statues dating from the 14th century.
Today, many African works of art belong to private collectors. The importance of African artwork, which is often anonymous, is underestimated in France. However, knowledge was passed down in a very similar way to the European process: through workshops. Although workshops were perhaps more often based on familial ties in Africa than in Europe. The name of the studio is often more well-known than that of the artist. Although works of art aren't necessarily signed, artists can leave their own distinct mark on them.
Many historical works were created within the context of the ritual and religion and often the objects created would have been seen as sacred. Their primary purpose was not commercial nor aesthetic.
Contemporary art has evolved considerably in Africa, especially in countries such as South Africa, where many a number of cultural institutions and galleries have sprung up. Contemporary African paintings, often tinged with humor, can act as summaries for the problems present on the African continent, from colonization to the social and economic instability of certain countries, but they can also depict Africa as exceptional, colorful and joyful where each country has a strong and distinct culture.
Little by little, African art is regaining its place on the world art scene and collections of contemporary African art are attracting more and more attention from experts and art lovers. Some African artists to know, such as Barthelemy Toguo, Hassan Hajjaj or Chéri Samba are raising prices in fairs.
Explore the best of the African contemporary scene thanks to the selection of Artsper experts by browsing the works of Paul Akiiki, Kim Bennani, Soly Cissé, Rafiy Okefolahan, Enfant Précoce or Angu Walters.
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Beach Holiday Red Sea
Olga Nikitina
Painting - 45 x 50 x 2 cm Painting - 17.7 x 19.7 x 0.8 inch
€450
Cloaks 1: Conceal
Victor Anachuna
Painting - 119.9 x 89.9 x 2.5 cm Painting - 47.2 x 35.4 x 1 inch
€3,008
In Love
Samuel Njuguna Njoroge
Painting - 80.5 x 100 x 2 cm Painting - 31.7 x 39.4 x 0.8 inch
€2,700
Sunday afternoon
Samuel Njuguna Njoroge
Painting - 80.5 x 100.5 x 2 cm Painting - 31.7 x 39.6 x 0.8 inch
€2,700
Un tombeau de la vallée des Rois II
Jean-Pierre Al Courty
Painting - 92 x 73 x 1 cm Painting - 36.2 x 28.7 x 0.4 inch
€3,000
Passantes dans le salon doré de l'éléphant
Jean-Pierre Al Courty
Painting - 92 x 73 x 1 cm Painting - 36.2 x 28.7 x 0.4 inch
€3,400
Passante dans la nuit africaine
Jean-Pierre Al Courty
Painting - 92 x 73 x 1 cm Painting - 36.2 x 28.7 x 0.4 inch
€3,400
Préparation du thé
Azeddine Essaouira
Painting - 23 x 31 x 1 cm Painting - 9.1 x 12.2 x 0.4 inch
€300
How to unfold your love
Phyllis Viola Boyd
Painting - 152.4 x 91.4 x 5.1 cm Painting - 60 x 36 x 2 inch
€5,341
Sisters Are Soul Mates
Bola Obatuyi
Painting - 121.9 x 121.9 x 2.5 cm Painting - 48 x 48 x 1 inch
€6,380
Looking for my spot
Chika Idu
Painting - 87.6 x 69.9 x 7.6 cm Painting - 34.5 x 27.5 x 3 inch
€3,608
Passante dans un tombeau de la Vallée des Rois
Jean-Pierre Al Courty
Painting - 92 x 73 x 1 cm Painting - 36.2 x 28.7 x 0.4 inch
€3,400
Chemin emprunt de souvenirs
Alegria Blue
Painting - 177 x 300 x 5 cm Painting - 69.7 x 118.1 x 2 inch
€13,648
Collective consciousness
Nyornuwofia Agorsor
Painting - 99.1 x 99.1 x 5.1 cm Painting - 39 x 39 x 2 inch
€4,466
Connexion sacrée #2
Dje Ozval
Painting - 120 x 110 x 3.5 cm Painting - 47.2 x 43.3 x 1.4 inch
€1,191
The miseducation of us
Ayoka Zahir
Painting - 30 x 22.5 x 0.01 cm Painting - 11.8 x 8.9 x 0 inch
€125
El retrato futurito
René Tavares
Painting - 147 x 147 x 4 cm Painting - 57.9 x 57.9 x 1.6 inch
€6,800
Three heads are better than one
Jacob Kwesi Bennett
Painting - 80 x 61 x 2 cm Painting - 31.5 x 24 x 0.8 inch
€377
Déesse africaine
Jean-Pierre Al Courty
Painting - 92 x 73 x 1 cm Painting - 36.2 x 28.7 x 0.4 inch
€3,400
The place of secrets II
Chika Idu
Painting - 217.4 x 119.9 x 10.2 cm Painting - 85.6 x 47.2 x 4 inch
€24,053
The place of secrets
Chika Idu
Painting - 209.6 x 119.9 x 10.2 cm Painting - 82.5 x 47.2 x 4 inch
€24,053
Enigmas of the Soul
Greatjoy Ndlovu
Painting - 160 x 220 x 4 cm Painting - 63 x 86.6 x 1.6 inch
€18,000
Children on a sailing boat II
Saviour Juma
Painting - 30 x 30 x 1 cm Painting - 11.8 x 11.8 x 0.4 inch
€150
Children on a Sailing Boat I
Saviour Juma
Painting - 30 x 30 x 1 cm Painting - 11.8 x 11.8 x 0.4 inch
€150
Portrait Van Gogh
Francklin Mbungu
Painting - 100 x 100 x 3 cm Painting - 39.4 x 39.4 x 1.2 inch
€2,000
Le léopard de Francklin
Francklin Mbungu
Painting - 63 x 70 x 3 cm Painting - 24.8 x 27.6 x 1.2 inch
€900
Eglises et Minarets
Youssef El Khorib (Youcha)
Painting - 140 x 90 x 3 cm Painting - 55.1 x 35.4 x 1.2 inch
€550
Discover the styles & movements
Discover the selection of our experts
Love and Flowers - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Africa, Women
Taiwo Odejinmi
Painting - 91.4 x 61 x 2.5 cm Painting - 36 x 24 x 1 inch
€2,233
Untitled
Oluwatimileyin Tega Adegbenjo
Painting - 61 x 50.8 x 2.5 cm Painting - 24 x 20 x 1 inch
€1,139
Discord
Thandiwe Muriu
Photography - 120 x 120 x 0.2 cm Photography - 47.2 x 47.2 x 0.1 inch
€13,000
Support System (Respect) - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Construction
Ephraim Udoka
Fine Art Drawings - 63.5 x 53.3 x 2.5 cm Fine Art Drawings - 25 x 21 x 1 inch
€1,185
Need help with African Painting ?
What are some common themes and motifs found in African paintings?
African paintings often feature themes and motifs such as spirituality, community, nature, and daily life. These themes are often depicted through the use of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolic imagery. Many African artists also incorporate traditional cultural elements, such as masks and tribal symbols, into their work.
How has African painting evolved over time, and what are some notable artists in the genre?
African painting has evolved over time, with traditional styles giving way to more contemporary techniques. Notable artists in the genre include El Anatsui, William Kentridge, and Chéri Samba. These artists have helped to shape the African art scene and bring it to a global audience.
What materials and techniques are typically used in African painting, and how do they differ from Western painting traditions?
African painting often uses natural materials such as mud, clay, and plant-based pigments, while Western painting relies on synthetic materials. African artists also tend to focus on storytelling and symbolism, whereas Western art emphasizes realism and individual expression. These differences reflect cultural and historical influences on artistic traditions.
What are the types of African art?
African art encompasses sculpture, painting, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and masks. It also includes contemporary art, which blends traditional techniques with modern expressions.
Who is the most famous African painter?
Ghanaian artist El Anatsui is considered one of the most famous African painters thanks to his monumental works combining painting, sculpture, and recycled materials. His work is exhibited in major museums around the world.
What is ethnic painting?
Ethnic painting refers to works inspired by the traditions, motifs, and symbols specific to a culture or ethnic group. It highlights the identity, history, and beliefs of communities through specific styles and techniques.