Concern has been expressed at the high prices fetched for what is considered to be important paintings depicting  Eastern Cape heritage.  After the SABC news reported the pending auction of five rare portraits portraying 18th century  Iinkosi (‘chiefs’) of AmaXhosa; namely, Inkosi Mqhayi, Inkosi Maqoma, Inkosi Siyolo, Inkosi Sandile and Inkosi Phato, a SAHRA delegation visited the auction house to view these artworks of chiefs who played an important role during the Frontier Wars and whose portraits were sold off in an auction last night, 16 October 2007.    

Whilst the SAHRA delegation was viewing the paintings, Chief Fadana (of the AmaXhosa Royal House) arrived and indicated that he was representing King Sandile and raised concerns about the sale of these artworks. 

Discussions ensued between SAHRA (acting as facilitator), Chief Fadana and the auction house.  After the procedures had been explained, the delegation led by Inkosi Fadana agreed to bid on behalf of King Sandile. SAHRA welcomed the dignified manner in which Inkosi Fadana’s delegation handled what was deemed to be quite a contentious issue.

The organisers estimated that the paintings would fetch between R20 000 and R30 000 each as printed in their catalogue (this was the amount the King expected to pay) but the bids went as high as R601 560 in total cost.

SAHRA expressed concern that such high prices would place such purchases outside the reach of the very South Africans to whom these objects have more than just an intrinsically investment value.  It is feared that such sales would deprive the nation of significant heritage objects.

SAHRA is aware of initiatives undertaken by Stephen Welz & Co. to ensure that the artwork being auctioned would still be accessible to South Africans and appreciated their understanding of the sensitive nature of the pending auction.

SAHRA CEO, Mr Phakamani Buthelezi, stated that:  “SAHRA respects the rights of private owners but in lieu of what has transpired, shall explore avenues in relation to applicable regulations pertaining to the selling or exporting of significant South African heritage objects and is in consultation with both the Royal House and the auctioneers involved.  It is hoped that a more sensitive and appropriate solution be sought with regards to what is perceived as sales that ultimately deprive our nation of its rich heritage”.   ENDS

Contact:
SAHRA CEO - Mr Phakamani Buthelezi
SAHRA Heritage Objects Manager-Ms Regina Isaacs
021 462 4502