When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Impressive original painting by Simon Prince Hodge, R.I. (1903–1973) depicting a herd of African elephants moving through the landscape. Hodge was a Glasgow-born artist who became closely associated with South Africa and was particularly known for wildlife, landscape, figure and genre subjects.
The painting is signed Simon Hodge and is presented in a substantial period frame. Overall framed dimensions are approximately 45\" long × 32\" high, giving the work significant presence as a large statement piece.
Of particular significance is the original label retained on the reverse:
“Supplied by Pieter Wenning Gallery — Specialists in South African Art — Pictureframers and Restorers — Cor. Loveday & Fox Sts., Johannesburg.”
The gallery association is especially relevant to Hodge. Biographical records document that he held a series of exhibitions at the Pieter Wenning Gallery in Johannesburg during the 1950s. The surviving label therefore provides meaningful period gallery provenance, we haven\'t yet confirmed that this particular painting was included in one of those exhibitions.
About the Artist
Simon Prince Hodge studied at the Glasgow School of Art and later in London under Iain Macnab. He exhibited at the Royal Academy (RA) and Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours (RI) and was elected a member of the RI in 1950. After returning to South Africa, he continued painting African landscapes and wildlife. His work is documented in the collections of Kruger National Park and Standard Bank in South Africa.
Hodge\'s work has also appeared at major international sale houses, including Bonhams and Christie\'s. A Hodge oil, Johannesburg overlooking the mine dumps, sold at Bonhams\' South African Sale in London in 2007 for £1,320 including premium.
Details
- Artist: Simon Prince Hodge, R.I. (1903–1973)
- Original, one-of-a-kind painting
- Signed Simon Hodge
- Subject: African elephant herd / wildlife
- Mid-20th century
- Large format
- Framed
- Overall dimensions: approximately 45\" L × 32\" H
- Original Pieter Wenning Gallery, Johannesburg label on reverse
- Pre-owned vintage condition; please review photographs carefully for the artwork, frame and gallery label
This is an especially appealing example of Hodge\'s documented interest in African wildlife, combining substantial scale, an iconic elephant subject and an unusually compelling connection to a gallery known to have exhibited the artist during his lifetime.
About BirdcageBen
BirdcageBen is a carefully curated collection of distinctive vintage, artistic and collectible finds—pieces chosen because they have a story, character, craftsmanship or history worth preserving.
Proceeds from our sales help support the DIRT Team — Disruptors, Innovators, Revolutionaries & Transformers — an effort created to generate resources in support of Christian ministry and the work of equipping disciples of Jesus.
Questions, additional information and knowledgeable insight about our pieces are always welcome.
