'Bokaap' - Solly Gutman

Dimension: 37 x 17 cm

Medium: Etching on scratchboard

Bokaap by Solly Gutman is an exceptional example of fine art printmaking, executed in the specialised technique of etching on scratchboard. This medium—often referred to as scraperboard—involves applying ink over a white clay base on board and then meticulously incising the surface to reveal the white beneath, creating highly detailed, linear imagery that is typically monochromatic.

The composition captures a panoramic vista of Cape Town, focusing on the historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood set against the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain. The work is defined by its masterful use of line work and tonal contrast. The background of Table Mountain is rendered with a dense network of cross-hatching and fine lines, establishing a deep texture that contrasts with the softer, unworked white of the sky.

The foreground and middle ground are where the technique truly shines. The iconic architecture of the Bo-Kaap is depicted with structural precision, but the application of selective hand-colouring (or a similar coloring technique applied after the etching) introduces vibrant washes of red, yellow, and green to the houses, providing a powerful colouristic focal point against the otherwise stark black-and-white framework. This infusion of colour not only accurately represents the neighbourhood but also adds a cheerful, expressive dimension to the meticulous draftsmanship.

Solly Gutman’s stylization merges graphic precision with narrative charm. The piece functions as both an architectural record and a celebration of a culturally significant South African landmark, offering a unique collector's item that highlights the intricate detail and graphic impact only achievable through the scratchboard etching process.

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