Dame Elisabeth Frink, R.A. (1930-1993)

The baboon became a major part of Frink's oeuvre during the 1980s. Their 'physical compactness' and large skulls were the elements that appealed to Frink. The underlying theme in these sculptures alludes to 'the confrontation of the wholly natural with the human - that is, with an intelligence which has started to disassociate itself from natural things' (see E. Lucie-Smith, Elisabeth Frink, London, 1994, p. 28).

Walking Baboon displays the artist's ability to portray physical characteristics in a naturalistic manner. Through the sense of movement and attention to anatomical structure there is a feeling of weight and power.