Frans Claerhout painting

FRANS CLAERHOUT (BE 1919 - 2006)

'A WOMAN HOLDING A DUCK'

OIL & CHARCOAL ON PAPER

PAINTING SIZE : 60,5CM X 44CM

FRAMED SIZE : 95CM X 79CM

HAND SIGNED BY ARTIST 

 FRAMED - TRIPLE FRAME 36CM WIDTH

CONDITION : GOOD

SURFACE CRACKS PER IMAGE

PREVIOUS OWNER PURCHASED DIRECT FROM CLAERHOUT 

ARTWORK AUTHENTICATED AT STEPHAN WELZ & CO AUCTIONEERS (SWELCO) 

One recurring motif in his work is the depiction of ducks, which holds significant meaning in the context of his artistic style and biblical inspirations. Claerhout's use of ducks can be interpreted in several ways:

1. Symbolism: Ducks represent humility, simplicity, and innocence in biblical tradition (e.g., Matthew 10:29-31). Claerhout may have employed ducks to convey these virtues in his artwork.

2. Storytelling: Ducks often appear in Claerhout's paintings alongside human figures, suggesting a narrative or parable. This could be a visual representation of biblical stories or teachings.

3. Whimsy and humor: Claerhout's ducks may also be seen as a playful element, adding a touch of humor and lightheartedness to his work.

4. Connection to nature: As an artist who often depicted rural scenes, Claerhout may have used ducks to emphasize the connection between humans and the natural world.

Born in Pittem, West Flanders, Belgium in 1919, Frans Claerhout, a self-taught artist and Catholic missionary, made a significant impact on South African art. Moving to South Africa in 1946, he combined his role as a priest with a passion for art, working in the Transvaal and later the Orange Free State. Claerhout's unique style, characterized by vivid colors and incorporation of everyday elements, gained fame after his move to Thaba Nchu in 1960.

Inspired by Christian spirituality, he painted landscapes, figures, and biblical scenes using oil, pastel, ink, pencil, and charcoal. Claerhout, associated with expressionism, referenced Flemish Expressionism, particularly Constant Permeke. In 1958, he joined the Bloemfontein Group, a notable art movement in the Free State.

Claerhout's health setbacks in 1979 led to a color evolution in his art. Beyond painting, he explored sculpture, wall paintings, monotype, linocut, stained glass, drawings, and crayon. A generous philanthropist, he donated earnings to support housing, schools, and his mission. Besides his artistic pursuits, Claerhout authored several books, including poetry.