Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Red Lechwes

Coert Steynberg, 1970

Name Class Date
Coert Steynberg, Red Lechwes (1970), University of Pretoria Museums. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Coert Steynberg originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/coert-steynberg/
Artist’s dates
1905 – 1982
Painted
1970
Medium
Bronze Molten metal poured into a mould made from the artist’s model, then finished and polished by hand.
Movement
Modernism The broad twentieth-century push to break with tradition and find forms that matched a changed world.
Period
Modern
Held at
University of Pretoria Museums originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/university-of-pretoria-museums-tshwane/
Artistic style
Modernist
Subject or theme
Red Lechwe antelopes

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Coert Steynberg died in 1982; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2052. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 1, 2026

Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg

When was this painted?

  1. 1900
  2. 1910
  3. 1920
  4. 1930
  5. 1940
  6. 1950
  7. 1960
  8. 1970
  9. 1980

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 77 at death.

Painted when the artist was 65. The artist lived to 77. 0 of the 1 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Coert Steynberg (1905–1982) ▲ this work, 1970 every dated painting, decade by decade

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Rosy Brown #ab9578

    Catalogued palette

    • #AB9578
    • #CDB79F
    • #3D321D
    • #73684C

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Rosy Brown
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Bright How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 1, 2026

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg

    A Bronze Encounter with the Wild

    In the heart of the University of Pretoria’s campus, where history and academia converge, stands a silent, metallic sentinel that captures the very essence of the African wetlands. Red Lechwes, a masterful bronze sculpture created in 1970 by the legendary South African sculptor Coert Steynberg, serves as more than just a landmark; it is a profound meditation on the grace and resilience of nature. The piece depicts two Red Lechwe antelopes, their forms rendered with a delicate balance of strength and fluidity. As they stand side by side, there is an intimate sense of companionship and watchful stillness that draws the viewer into their quiet world. For collectors and lovers of fine art, this work offers a window into a moment of frozen motion, where the rugged textures of the bronze meet the soft, evocative suggestion of life.

    The artistry behind this sculpture lies in Steynberg’s unparalleled ability to manipulate medium and form. Working in bronze, a material known for its permanence and weight, Steynberg achieved a surprising lightness in the depiction of these creatures. The antique patina of the metal lends the work an air of timelessness, as if the Lechwes have emerged from the mists of the Okavango Delta to stand eternally before the historic Old Arts Building. His technique reflects a deep mastery of texture, allowing the light to dance across the metallic surfaces, mimicking the way sunlight might glint off the wet coats of animals emerging from the reeds. This interplay of light and shadow creates a dynamic visual experience that changes with the passing hours of the day.

    A Legacy of South African Mastery

    To understand the emotional depth of Red Lechwes, one must look to the hands that shaped it. Coert Steynberg was a titan of South African sculpture, a man whose versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between the monumental and the intimate. While he is globally recognized for his iconic design of the springbok on the gold Krugerrand, his private works like this bronze duo reveal a more tender, naturalist side of his genius. The history of this specific piece is as rich as its composition; originally intended for the Harare Airport, it was gifted to the University of Pretoria by the esteemed conservationist Dr. Anton Edward Rupert and his wife, Huberte. This connection to conservation adds a layer of symbolic weight to the work, transforming the sculpture into a tribute to the preservation of Africa's precious wildlife.

    For the interior designer or the discerning art enthusiast, incorporating a high-quality reproduction of such a piece brings a sense of organic elegance and historical narrative into a space. The sculpture does not merely occupy a room; it anchors it with a sense of dignity and peace. It serves as a conversation piece that bridges the gap between the wild, untamed beauty of the natural world and the refined sophistication of classical sculptural tradition. Whether placed in a sunlit study or a grand foyer, Red Lechwes invites contemplation, reminding us of the enduring beauty found in the quietest corners of our planet.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 1, 2026

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Coert Steynberg

    Born in South Africa

    early life and career

    coert steynberg, a prominent south african sculptor and medallist, was born in 1905 in south africa. his work in various materials such as stone, marble, bronze, copper, and wood has left an indelible mark on the art world.

    notable works

    steynberg is best known for his public works, including:

    a statue of bartholomew dias in london, showcasing his mastery over bronze.

    a monument to andries pretorius in graaff-reinet, highlighting his skill in marble.

    the peace of vereeniging monument in vereeniging, demonstrating his ability to work with copper.

    he also designed the famous springbok on all gold krugerrands, a testament to his versatility.

    artistic style and influences

    steynberg's work is characterized by its attention to detail and the use of various materials. his sculptures often feature intricate designs and textures, reflecting his deep understanding of the materials he worked with.

    legacy

    coert steynberg passed away in 1982, but his legacy lives on through his numerous works. as a renowned south african sculptor, he has inspired generations of artists and continues to be celebrated for his contributions to the art world.

    view more works by coert steynberg

    for more information on coert steynberg's work, including red lechwes, visit [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/d7353h-coert-steynberg-red-lechwes](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@@/d7353h-coert-steynberg-red-lechwes) at AllPaintingsStore.com.

    other notable artists

    * [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/romano-rui](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/romano-rui): an italian sculptor known for his work in various materials. * [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/gustav-klimt](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/gustav-klimt): an austrian symbolist painter who worked with a wide range of materials.

    related museums

    * nuneaton museum and art gallery: a museum and art gallery in nuneaton, united kingdom, featuring a diverse collection of artworks. * the hepworth wakefield: a museum in wakefield, united kingdom, showcasing sculptures by dame barbara hepworth. discover more about coert steynberg's life and work on AllPaintingsStore.com.

    Museum

    University of Pretoria Museums

    On show in Tshwane, South Africa

    A Tapestry of Pretoria’s Heritage

    Nestled within the vibrant, purple-hued embrace of the Jacaranda City, the

    University of Pretoria Museums

    stand as a profound testament to South Africa's intellectual and artistic soul. More than mere repositories for silent artifacts, these institutions function as living chronicles, weaving together a complex narrative of a nation’s journey through time. To step into these halls is to embark on an immersive voyage where academic rigor meets the evocative power of storytelling, illuminating a multifaceted past that ranges from ancient indigenous traditions to the transformative echoes of the liberation struggle. The museum serves as a vital bridge between the preservation of heritage and the pulse of contemporary artistic appreciation, offering a sanctuary for those who seek to understand the deep-seated cultural currents that shape South African identity.

    The architectural landscape of the campus itself provides a majestic stage for this collection, dominated by the venerable

    Old Arts Building

    and the

    Merensky Building

    . The Old Arts Building is a true architectural marvel, a landmark that breathes with the elegance of various eras, from the sweeping grandeur of Victorian design to the streamlined sophistication of Art Deco. Within its soaring ceilings and ornate structural details, one finds a curated dialogue between European influences and African aesthetics. This sense of structural innovation extends into the museum's unique holdings, most notably through the remarkable assemblage featuring works by

    Jean Prouvé

    . The visionary French architect’s influence brings a touch of modern functionalism to the collection, where his philosophy of prioritizing aesthetic beauty alongside structural engineering resonates powerfully against the backdrop of historical South African narratives.

    Treasures of Gold and Global Dialogue

    The true heart of the museum lies in its ability to curate moments of profound historical significance through diverse visual media. Collectors and art enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by the meticulous archives that offer unparalleled access to the figures and pivotal movements that have defined the country. A singular highlight that commands reverence is the

    Golden Rhinoceros of Mapungubwe

    , a medieval masterpiece of wood overlaid with thin sheets of gold. This delicate yet powerful artifact, discovered by archaeologists from the university, serves as a shimmering symbol of the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe and the sophisticated artistry of pre-colonial South Africa.

    Such treasures are complemented by recent exhibitions that have brought groundbreaking international perspectives to the local context, fostering a global dialogue through collaborations with world-class curators. What distinguishes the University of Pretoria Museums is their holistic commitment to the lifecycle of art and history. It is not merely a place for observation, but a center for active scholarly research where advanced analytical techniques are employed to reconstruct lost artistic traditions. For the interior designer or the passionate art lover, the museum offers an endless wellspring of inspiration, blending the textures of historical struggle with the elegance of architectural innovation. By integrating educational programs and postgraduate studies into its very framework, the institution ensures that the stories held within its walls continue to evolve, inspiring new generations of creators to find beauty in the enduring power of heritage.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Red Lechwes

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/coert-steynberg-red-lechwes-D7353H-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Steynberg, Coert. Red Lechwes. 1970, University of Pretoria Museums. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/coert-steynberg-red-lechwes-D7353H-en/
    APA
    Steynberg, Coert (1970). Red Lechwes [Painting]. University of Pretoria Museums. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/coert-steynberg-red-lechwes-D7353H-en/
    Chicago
    Coert Steynberg. Red Lechwes. 1970. University of Pretoria Museums. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/coert-steynberg-red-lechwes-D7353H-en/
    Harvard
    Steynberg, Coert (1970) Red Lechwes. University of Pretoria Museums. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/coert-steynberg-red-lechwes-D7353H-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 1, 2026

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: red lechwe, bronze sculpture, wildlife. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Modernism: The broad twentieth-century push to break with tradition and find forms that matched a changed world. Where can you see that in this work?
    5. Coert Steynberg was about 65 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 1, 2026

    Red Lechwes — Coert Steynberg Part 5 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    What is the dominant color of "Red Lechwes" by Coert Steynberg?

    rosy brown (#ab9578) is the leading color of "Red Lechwes" by Coert Steynberg.

    What luminance does "Red Lechwes" by Coert Steynberg have?

    "Red Lechwes" by Coert Steynberg has a gentle luminance luminance. Luminance describes how much light the colors appear to reflect.

    How is "Red Lechwes" situated historically?

    The art-historical classification of "Red Lechwes" by Coert Steynberg is Modernism, in the Modern period.