'Autumn in the Zeverivieren valley' - James Yates

Dimensions: 61 x 76 cm (18 x 24 in)

Medium: Oil on canvas

'Autumn in the Zeverivieren Valley' is a richly coloured and evocative original oil on canvas by the celebrated South African artist, James Yates (b. 1944). This stunning Cape Winelands landscape, measuring 61 cm (Height) x 76 cm (Width), is a quintessential example of the artist's Postwar Realist style. It captures the seasonal transition in the historically rich Zeverivieren Valley, likely near the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek areas, celebrating the dramatic spectacle of the vineyards in their full autumn glory, set against a towering mountain backdrop.

The composition masterfully employs contrasting colours and textures. The foreground is dominated by the vast, luminous vineyards, where the vine leaves transition into brilliant shades of cadmium yellow, deep amber, and fiery red, creating a textured, painterly path into the distance. A strip of dark green foliage acts as a recessive plane, emphasising the Cape Dutch homestead nestled centrally, its white walls glowing under the warm, low light of the sun. This detail firmly roots the painting in South African fine art history.

The mountain range dominates the upper third of the canvas, painted in cool mauves and deep purples. These massive peaks rise abruptly from the valley floor, their scale made even more imposing by wisps of cloud clinging to the ridges. The powerful juxtaposition of the warm, seasonal colours of the valley floor with the cooler tones of the rugged, ancient mountains creates a profound, timeless serenity. This piece stands as a powerful testament to the beauty of South African autumn scenery and is a valuable addition to any African landscape art collection.

International Shipping available and charged on a quote basis - Please email partnersgalleryza@gmail.com for enquiries.