Kasimba: Creature Design (Across the Delta)

Kasimba Antelope: Creature Design

Across the Delta

This antelope design is concept art for my original IP, Across the Delta, a graphic novel. It was designed to create an African-Western combination mount for larger riders. The Kasimba antelope is a descendant of the eland, having been domesticated and bred for larger riders and ox cart pulling. They average 17h-21hh in height at the shoulder, with horns reaching up to 1,5 metres in length.

They are quite temperamental and not often seen at farms, though are more commonly bred for meat or for fur. They are selectively bred for the mane on the throat and their long tail, which is not present in their direct relatives. Kasimba are traditionally brown and tan, but white, black, and chestnut varieties are common. The white tear lines give them better vision at night than most bokkies.

Kasimba tack, similar to western saddlery, is designed to fit the sloped back shape of the antelope, and thus has a pronounced seat. This edition is highly customised by Leah, to include similar leather strapping to the Himbe people, which deters flies on long trips. Oditi is Leah’s antelope and primary steed: an old, cranky mare who flinches at nothing. She occasionally wears a fly mask to shield her light eyes from the sun.