MARCEL GOTENE ORIGINAL PAINTING

Newly Acquired Works: Marcel Gotène (1939–2013)

Afrahouse African Art is proud to announce the acquisition of an exceptional original work on paper by the celebrated Congolese master Marcel Gotène.

Regarded as one of the most visionary figures of 20th-century African modernism, Marcel Gotène developed a distinct visual language during his formative years at the renowned École De Peinture Poto-Poto in Brazzaville. Gotène later expanded his technical range through formal study in France, training under tapestry master Jean Lurçat and mastering printmaking and graphic arts.

Gotène’s signature technique, typically executed in gouache and ink or oil on canvas utilises flat planes of saturated color outlined by sharp, rhythmic black contours. His compositions weave together elements of Central African mythology, human figures, zoomorphic forms, and dreamlike folklore into tight, decorative harmonies reminiscent of modernist tapestry. Today, his work is officially classified as part of the national cultural heritage of the Republic of the Congo.

Artwork Description

Set against a rich terracotta-red background, this gouache-and-ink composition captures Gotène’s signature play between organic form and graphic structure.

Composition & Form: A central, stylised figure appears in profile, adorned with traditional neck rings and a turquoise bead necklace. The figure balances a textured, woven structure above its head and holds a vessel or mirror-like element.  

Zoomorphic Motifs: Flanking and supporting the main subject are undulating black forms, including a creature resting at the base, demonstrating Gotène’s recurring theme of unity between humanity and the natural realm.  

Colour & Contrast: Sharp accents of emerald green, golden yellow, purple, and cobalt blue break through the solid black silhouettes, creating an intense, rhythmic contrast against the warm terracotta backdrop.  

Signature: Signed GOTENE in bold ink on the lower right.  

Presented in a black floating frame, this piece offers collectors a quintessential example of Gotène’s mid-century modern aesthetic and his mastery of line and color.  

Collectors and art patrons are invited to view this work in person at the gallery by booking a private gallery visit.