Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

A black and white silver gelatin photograph entitled 'Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela', taken by Bob Gosani in 1957. From Impressions Galley exhibition 'Drum' 10th December 1988 - 21st January 1989

Robert ‘Bob’ Gosani was a leading photojournalist who started his career at South African Magazine Drum. Founded in 1951, Drum became a vital source of reportage, documenting Black life, culture and struggle under an oppressive system of racial apartheid. This image of anti-apartheid leader, Nelson Mandela, sparring with champion fighter Jerry Moloi became an iconic image of resistance. Writing in his memoirs, Mandela recalled how boxing was an important part of relaxing his mind during turbulent years of struggle.