Signed 1975 Oil on Canvas by Pnakash – African Agricultural Labor Scene

Details

Description

Original oil on canvas depicting a rural African agricultural labor scene, painted in 1975 and signed lower left “Pnakash 75.” … Read more Original oil on canvas depicting a rural African agricultural labor scene, painted in 1975 and signed lower left “Pnakash 75.” The composition portrays figures operating a traditional wooden irrigation structure within an open landscape, rendered with expressive impasto and layered earth tones, greens, and soft blues.

The work reflects the visual language of post-colonial social realism, emphasizing labor, environment, and historical memory rather than decorative idealization. Confident palette-knife textures and visible brushwork give the surface a tactile, dimensional quality, while the restrained palette reinforces the seriousness and authenticity of the subject matter.

The painting is presented in a custom stained solid wood frame, featuring a deep, angled profile (approximately 2.5 inches deep) with clean mitered corners that create strong square geometry. The frame was clearly selected to complement the painting’s tonal warmth and adds architectural presence without distracting from the composition.

A compelling and historically resonant work suitable for collectors of African art, social realist painting, or ethnographic narrative works by under-documented regional artists.

Details
• Artist: Pnakash
• Date: 1975
• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Signature: Signed and dated lower left
• Framed: Yes
• Frame: Custom stained solid wood frame, approx. 1” wide face, ~2.5” deep, angled profile with mitered corners
• Provenance: Private collection

Measurements
• Canvas: 27” W × 21.4” H
• Framed: Approximately 29” W × 23.4” H × 2.5”


Condition

Very good vintage condition overall. Minor, stable area of paint loss visible in the sky near center, consistent with age and visible upon close inspection. No canvas tears, no active flaking, and no structural issues observed. Frame presents well with light, age-appropriate wear. See less