With our commitment to the preservation of culture and heritage, not only does the La Motte Museum currently host an exhibition of some prime examples of historic Cape furniture, but on Thursday, 15 May, we will also host acclaimed expert in South African cultural history, Professor Matilda Burden who will present a talk on the inscriptions found on Old Cape Furniture.

From the years 1660 to 1920, furniture makers in South Africa and more specifically in the Cape, manufactured furniture pieces under the stylistic influences of Europe. These pieces are today seen in various Culture Historical museums, private collections and shops of antique dealers. Old Cape furniture includes a variety of categories with emphasis on their use and most pieces feature innovative and exceptional craftsmanship. Some pieces have inscriptions – either as a decorative element or purely a mark. But what is the cultural and historic value in these specific markings, names and/or dates?

Professor Burden addresses this question at the hand of her recently published book, Ou-Kaapse Meubels – studies in style (soon to be available in English as Old Cape Furniture – studies in style), a functional source for identifying and categorizing Old Cape furniture.

Talk Detail

Date:

Thursday, 15 May 2014

Where:

La Motte Museum, La Motte Wine Estate, R45, Franschhoek Valley

Time:

19:00 (Join us for a glass of wine from 18:30)

Admission:

R70

Special dinner:

For guests attending talks, Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant will prepare a special Cape Winelands Cuisine menu. Cost is R240 p.p., including a glass of wine and admission to the talk. When making a reservation, guests must please indicate whether they will be attending the dinner.

Reservations are essential.

To make a reservation and for more information, please contact Angela, at:

T +27 (0)21 876 8000

E reception@la-motte.co.za