| Abstrakt: |
This study discusses the works of art presented by Randlord Max Michaelis and his wife, Lilian, to public institutions in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town. The study notes that benefactions of this kind were unusual for the Randlords– many of whom were, like Michaelis, of German-Jewish origin – and considers the gifts in the context of South African union and the drive to provide a 'new' nation with a humanist cultural heritage. But it observes that the works of art presented by the Michaelises – paintings as well as works on paper – prompted as much controversy as gratitude, since they were often judged to be of dubious authenticity. These various gifts, and their reception, are analysed to assess the extent to which this response was justified. Ultimately, it is argued, the honourable intentions of the couple, and some important benefactions, have been undervalued and might have been more positively acknowledged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
