Lot 42

Romano Lutwama (Ugandan, 1952 – 2004)
Untitled, undated
Signed ‘R.N. LUTWAMA’ (lower right)
Acrylic on hardboard
58 x 38.5 cm
Ksh 395,000 – 510,000
(US$) 3,500 – 4,500
Provenance: private collection of AKA Gallery

Bought in

Romano Lutwama’s formally experimental paintings and sculptures are an important part of Ugandan avant-garde art. Lutwama painted closely alongside his renowned contemporaries – Geoffrey Mukasa, Fabian Mpagi and Eli Kyeyune. Known as the ‘Three Musketeers’, Lutwama, Kyeyune and Mpagi’s shared attitudes to painting were opposed by the fine arts academia of the time, however the group have now come to be recognised as some of Uganda’s master painters.

Known for his exploration of colour relationships, cubist deconstruction and tonal dynamics, Lutwama’s work has been exhibited throughout East Africa, and in France, Germany, Switzerland and Belgium.

As well as a painter, Lutwama was also a celebrated and innovative wood carver, creating forms between sculpture and furniture which have had a great influence on many artists after him.

Paintings by Lutwama have become increasingly popular and have done very well at auction over the last few years.
This artwork has been cleaned and restored and comes with a condition report.