"Daggaboy"
Oil on canvas · 150 × 70 cm (59.1 × 27.6 in)
'Daggaboy' is a term used to describe old male buffalo, generally solitary, who have been driven from the herd by younger, more vigorous males.
These males have adopted the nickname 'daggaboy', which refers primarily to the thick black clay that covers their skin; 'dagga' means 'mud' in Zulu.
But it would be wise not to be deceived by their condition. These monoliths are known to put up a fierce fight when frightened, wounded, or cornered, even pursuing potential threats such as lions. They were notoriously difficult to bring down, which is why they were included in the 'Big Five'.
When I painted this work, it was that duality that guided me: old age and power, solitude and menace. This buffalo is alone, marked by the years — hide cracked, gaze heavy — but there is something in its posture that clearly says it has not had its last word.
I — Original Work
"Daggaboy"
Original work sold — Private Collection
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II — Canvas Editions
Numbered art print, hand-signed by the artist. On 375 gsm matte canvas. Comes with a certificate of authenticity and the artist's double signature.
Shipping: rolled in a tube or framed ready to hang.