Sunburnt Sketches of Africa – South, East and West

Sunburnt Sketches of Africa: South, East and West by Kent Cottrell is a striking mid-20th century illustrated work capturing the people, cultures and landscapes of Africa through vivid colour paintings and expressive drawings. Published by Central News Agency Ltd., South Africa, this beautifully produced volume presents 32 full-page colour plates, accompanied by more than 100 pages of sketches and descriptive prose.

Sunburnt Sketches of Africa documents scenes from across the continent including Transkei, Basutoland, Swaziland, the Cape of Good Hope, South West Africa (Namibia), Zanzibar, the Transvaal and Zululand. The illustrations portray traditional dress, daily life and cultural practices, reflecting the artistic style and travel-illustration tradition of the period.

Printed in the Netherlands by L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, the book is notable for its high-quality colour reproduction and attractive illustrated boards. Titles of the colour plates include subjects such as Swazi Warrior, Ovambo Woman, N’Delele Madonna, Baca Mother and Child, and Masai with Shield, making it a visually rich historical record of African peoples and regions as interpreted by a travelling artist.

Sunburnt Sketches of Africa is sought after by collectors of African art books, travel illustration, and mid-century African cultural studies.

Condition – Very Good

Overall good. Illustrated boards remain bright with light general handling wear. The spine has received a sympathetic repair, stabilising the binding while retaining the original appearance. A prior ownership inscription in ink appears on the front endpaper. Internally clean and complete with all colour plates present.