End of an era for 158-year-old law firm in South Africa

One of South Africa’s oldest law firms, Webber Wentzel, has introduced a new visual identity, which it said was built on 158 years of precedent.

The new visual identity includes an overhauled workmark, website, and brand colours derived from the firm’s archive and handwritten records.

Webber Wentzel announced this change on Monday, 2 November, saying the new identity puts the institution and its people at the centre of the brand.

“Webber Wentzel is an African institution known for exceptional lawyers doing exceptional work,” the firm said. 

“What lies beneath us is generations of accumulated judgement, knowledge passed between peers, and a collective standard that raises everyone within it.”

“What has not changed is our people, our values, and the way we approach our clients’ mandates.”

The group said its brand reflects an institution that is rooted in its past while fully focused on the future. 

“Defined by excellence, transformation, technology, and a deepening mandate across the continent,” it said.

On its website, Webber Wentzel explains that its new wordmark was custom-drawn, featuring wide, planted letterforms that read as a single, immovable block of stone. 

“It signals balance, stability, and enduring stature,” the firm explained.

Some of its eight new brand colours were derived from the firm’s archive and handwritten records. 

“Blue Sky anchors the system. Reef Rust, Common Ground, and Overland carry the earth of the South African veld. Doornfontein Rose and Green Shoots are small, human accents,” it said.

“We now have a visual system, built on 158 years of precedent, designed for the commercial realities ahead and for the clients we will serve into the future.”

The group’s new brand will also introduce a portrait series showcasing the lawyers who work at the firm.

Founded in 1869, Webber Wentzel is one of the oldest law firms in South Africa. Today, the firm consists of 520 lawyers.

Webber Wentzel’s old and new brand identities can be seen in the image below.