Snake Lilies - Perla Siedle Gibson

Snake Lilies

Perla Siedle Gibson
Oil on board
Purchase
1803/96

This painting was titled Snake Lilies when acquired by the Gallery. It refers to the flowers depicted, and suggests that the Zulu woman in traditional dress was considered incidental by whoever gave the title. Was it the artist? The artist obviously observed the woman and her attire closely. From the Gallery collection we identified similar items to those worn by the sitter.

1006/88, Zulu (Unknown Artist), Waistband, Grass, beads & studs

1006/88
Zulu (Unknown Artist)
Waistband
Grass, beads & studs


1305/89, Zulu (Unknown Artist), Isidwaba (Woman's Skirt), Animal hide

1305/89
Zulu (Unknown Artist)
Isidwaba (Woman's Skirt)
Animal hide


Perla Siedle-Gibson (b.1888 Durban d.1971 Durban)

Perla Siedle Gibson studied music and drawing in Berlin between 1907 and 1909, and under John Adams at the Durban School of Art. She became famous as "The Lady in White", the result of her voluntary efforts during World War II singing to troops on arriving and departing ships at Durban Harbour.

In the art world she exhibited frequently on the Natal Society of Artists annual exhibitions between 1909 and 1939 and was twice a Council member of that organization. She was awarded the Gundelfinger prize for "native studies" in 1932.

Perla Siedle Gibson singing to the troops (Campbell Collections, University of KwaZulu-Natal)

Perla Siedle Gibson singing to the troops (Campbell Collections, University of KwaZulu-Natal)

Perla Siedle Gibson welcoming troops back to Durban after the 2nd World War (Campbell Collections, University of KwaZulu-Natal)