Rhinos
Print / Photomechanical Lithograph on paper • Paul Augustinus (born 1952), a prominent wildlife artist and author known for his depictions of African fauna.
Style & Movement
Contemporary Wildlife Realism; Naturalism
Medium & Technique
Color offset lithography; likely a reproduction of an original oil or acrylic painting. The technique demonstrates fine-line rendering and soft-focus atmospheric qualities (sfumato-like) in the background vegetation.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, likely circa 1980-1995
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; approximately 18 x 24 inches (image size) excluding the mat and frame.
Subject Description
The composition features two rhinoceroses (likely Black Rhinoceros) in a scrubland environment. A large, gnarled baobab-style tree dominates the central background, its white bark providing high contrast against the cool blue-grey shadows. The rhinos appear alert in the foreground among dry grasses, framed by dense, skeletal branches that create a complex lattice of lines.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The image appears clear, though color shifting toward blue/grey is visible, which may indicate light-induced fading of warmer pigments over time.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased from a wildlife art gallery or as a museum/safari shop edition. The title "RHINOS" is printed centrally in the bottom margin, and the artist's signature is visible in the lower right (printed).
Art Historical Significance
Augustinus is highly regarded for his field research-based paintings and books like 'Botswana: A Brush with the Wild.' While his original oils command high prices, this photomechanical print serves as an accessible decorative example of his contribution to late 20th-century African wildlife art.
Notable Features
The piece features the characteristic intricate branch-work of Augustinus, where the negative space between the limbs is as important as the subjects themselves. The presence of the printed title suggests this was a commercially distributed open or limited edition print.
Condition Issues
Visible color shift/fading (loss of yellows/reds resulting in a monochromatic blue cast). Minor humidity-related paper rippling may be present under the glass. Possible light foxing along the margins (not fully visible).
Conservation Recommendations
Switch to UV-protective glazing to prevent further fading. Ensure the use of acid-free, archival matting to prevent mat burn. Keep out of direct sunlight and high-humidity areas.
Collector Notes
Rhinos by Paul Augustinus