Cry Havoc

This multimedia work was initially part of Sibande’s travelling exhibition, The Purple Shall Govern, and presents the central character in a familiar purple, old-style period costume, typical of those worn by 19th-century female servants in middle- or upper-class western homes.

The attitude of this particular version of oppressed domesticity is very different, however, from what we might expect of a servant. Far from being subservient, Sophie is a figure of revenge and righteous anger who is ready to set loose the DOGS OF WAR that she holds on leashes.

The sculpture challenges the usual perception of domesticity and domestic work, empowering Sophie and making her into a goddess-like figure.

Artwork courtesy of the Artist.