A World in Clay: Hylton Nel’s Ceramic Studio

Live Virtual Auction, 17 September 2024

A World in Clay: Hylton Nel’s Ceramic Studio
About the Session

A World in Clay: Hylton Nel’s Ceramic Studio celebrates the work of esteemed artist-potter Hylton Nel. Having a career spanning many decades and career-defining exhibitions, his work has become instantly recognisable to both his collectors and the public alike. The iconic magnetism of his work became evident on the world stage when it became the basis of the artistic output for the French fashion house, Dior, for their summer 2024 collection. 

This sale includes, but is not limited to, a single-owner collection of works acquired directly from the artist's home studio. 

Throughout the lots, Nel's persuasions as a painter interested in colour and pattern are clear, but his capacity for sculpture is equally notable. Nel had consistently produced figure sculptures since the 1960s - predating his plates and vases. While he is equally drawn to both human and animal subjects, it is his cats that are particularly adored, having also graced the Dior runway this year. His vases and press-moulded plates are also popular amongst new collectors, being painted in whimsical colour and decorated with idiosyncratic figural motifs, unattributed quotes and diverse patterns. 


Sold for

ZAR 5 277
Lot 119
  • Hylton Nel; Plate with a leaf motif in blue and white
  • Hylton Nel; Plate with a leaf motif in blue and white


Lot Estimate
ZAR 2 000 - 3 000
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 5 277

About this Item

South African 1941-
Plate with a leaf motif in blue and white

signed with the artist's initials on the underside

painted and glazed ceramic
3,5cm high, 21cm diameter

Provenance

Acquired from the artist by the current owner.

Notes

Made and fired in Cape Town.

View all Hylton Nel lots for sale in this auction