Expressive Paintings by Gbenga Offo and W Thompson Lead John Moran’s Upcoming Sale

A significant contemporary artist of Nigeria, Gbenga Offo worked as an illustrator for prominent advertising agencies for several years before he become a full-time studio artist. His expressionist works are influenced by the traditional African art and crafts. Offo’s Bonding, a 1999 acrylic and gouache on canvas, is a key highlight of an upcoming auction by John Moran. The painting is characterized by the use of figurative art, and exemplifies Offo’s free-willed, cubist style. His works feature in the top public and corporate collections across the UK, the US, and his native country Nigeria. W. Thompson’s painting of a coastal imagery also leads the listing. It depicts ships at the sea and flotsam on shore. The oil on canvas particularly stands out for its expressive use of paints. 

Another interesting lot is a Chinese cloisonné lidded jar (circa 1930-40). Mounted on a wooden stand, the enamel vessel is adorned with seafoam green background and polychrome florals. Cloisonné is the art of embellishing metallic objects with colored material using metal strips or wire. The technique spread to China by 14th century after attaining popularity across Europe. To view the complete catalog and register to bid online, visit Bidsquare and browse other online auctions.