Weeping cat

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.