Botterblom Collection by Frances vH Mohair Studio

12 Dec 2024

The timed online auction opens on Monday, 3 February and closes on Friday, 21st February 2025. This remarkable collection of handwoven tapestries, created by the artisans of Frances VH Mohair Studio, offers a heartfelt exploration of heritage, and artistry inspired by the Karoo’s rich landscape and the stories of the community that call it home.

Presented alongside the second iteration of ‘Woven Legacies: Celebrating African Artistry’, an annual auction showcasing the evolution of artisanal craftsmanship across the continent, Botterblom Collection honours the artistry of traditional techniques while celebrating the creativity of local artisans, fostering a deeper appreciation of craft in a contemporary context. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Botterblom Collection will be dedicated to establishing a fund that supports women artisans, empowering them in their creative processes and helping pave the way for a sustainable future in their craft.

Drawing from the rich tradition of craftsmanship across the African continent, ‘Woven Legacies’ highlights diverse modes of making — from utility and artistic expression to communal connection and storytelling. The sale features beaded jewellery and African fabrics, including traditional Kuba cloths and Ewe prestige robes, as well as intricately woven baskets from Botswana and Central Africa alongside a selection of contemporary works of; wrought ironworks by local artist Conrad Hicks and handcrafted woven rings by Sharon Botes. These works highlight the profound value of storytelling through materiality and creativity across diverse forms.

Collectors are invited to view ‘Woven Legacies’ and Botterblom Collection at Strauss & Co’s Woodstock offices in Cape Town, from 4 February 2025. 

A series of events will accompany the sales, including a walkabout with Frances van Hasselt, the founder of Frances VH Mohair Studio, on Sunday, 16 February 2025 at 10am, followed by a screening of a film documenting the making of Botterblom Collection.

A second screening of the film will take place on Thursday 20th February at 10am.