Collector's Edition

From the old to the unusual to the bizarre, what is it that motivates the rarefied pursuit of collecting objects? For the aficionados soon to be unraveled on these pages, their collectibles are more than mere things – they are priceless treasures and extensions of who they are.

- Mashokane Mahlo

WE EXPLORE the captivating world of Africa’s collectors, and get a feel of their prized possessions, and what motivates them to keep building on their treasures. This is a selection of considered individuals on the continent who embrace the world around them in enchanting, curious and unlikely ways.

They are passionate devotees, enthusiasts, and fanatics who share a love of unique objects. They are drawn to either preserve the things they love or be surrounded by them.

The featured collections range from accessible and popular to the aspirational and unusual, each different and purposeful. And what we have uncovered rings true to the words “not all treasure is silver and gold”.

It is not always the financial value or returns on investment that sparks nor sustains a collector’s momentum. It is the essential personal value they derive from their collection.

The value of the featured collections comes from what the individuals are willing to sacrifice, inactions, finances, and space to establish their treasure trove.

What’s most encouraging is to see how their hobbies pave the way to alternative avenues of wealth creation and notably, how serial collectors unlock opportunities of commercial, professional and social benefit. This compilation is innovative, exciting and aspirational. Most impactfully, it brings to light how we can extend our personality, values, self-expression, memories, emotions, and passions through eclectic items of interest.

MAKGATI MOLEBATSI, 61, SOUTH AFRICA
COLLECTION: Contemporary art
ESTIMATED WORTH: R1.2 million ($80,000)
COLLECTING FOR: Enjoyment and appreciation