Both sales persevered through a lukewarm atmosphere to break into the lower reaches of their estimate ranges
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A selection of 15 exceptional ceramics by Hans Coper, Lucie Rie, Jennifer Lee, Ewen Henderson, Colin Pearson, Duncan Ross and Walter Keeler from a private French collection will be offered at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr in Paris on Wednesday 6 December 2023.
Hans Coper (1920-1981) was a leading figure in the field of studio pottery — the production of unique ceramic wares made by individual artist-potters in small batches. Together with Lucie Rie (1902-1995), he was instrumental in revolutionising British ceramics, adopting a style which was increasingly sculptural.
Claire Gallois, Bonhams’ Director of 20th Century Design in Paris said: “Coper and Rie are ones of the greatest names of 20th century British ceramics. This collection reveals true masterpieces which should appeal to international collectors.”
With their scoured surfaces and neutral tones, Coper’s work is reminiscent of ancient vessels, and especially ancient Cycladic art (about 3500-1050 BC). The artist likes to translate ancient forms into abstract sculpture as in this Spade form, made circa 1972 of stoneware, layered porcelain slips and engobes over a textured and incised body (estimate: €60,000 – 80,000) or in a Cycladic form circa 1967 measuring 25 cm high (estimate: €60,000 – 80,000).
Some are formed of a single shape, while others are assembled from multiple elements. Discs feature in several of his designs, including Thistle form, 1965 in which footed cups are balanced by a central disc between the body and the base estimated at € 30,000-50,000.
Lucie Rie (1902-1995) was a ceramist with immense technical knowledge and an inventive, experimental approach. She established herself in Britain in 1938, becoming renowned for her distinctive tableware and one-off pieces. She developed a range of innovative glazes, showcased in works such as a porcelain Footed bowl executed circa 1980 which features inlaid pink radiating lines, turquoise and manganese bands and carries an estimate of € 40,000-60,000. Another highlight is her cylindrical vase with flaring lip, circa 1978, made of porcelain, manganese and dry terracotta glazes which has an estimate of €20,000 to 30,000.
Jennifer Lee (born 1956) is known for her innovative style, mixing metallic oxides into the clay before firing to colour them. Celebrated for her hand-built pottery, herwork is represented in major public collections worldwide, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. A 2006 pale and speckled rim vessel made of stoneware and oxides is estimated at €10,000-15,000.
Other highlights of the 15-lot collection include:
- Vessel with twisted handles, 2001 by Colin Pearson. Estimate: € 2,000-3,000.
- Two 1980 pieces by Ewen Henderson: Vessel forms, one with an estimate of € 2,000-3,000 and the other with an estimate of € 3,000-5,000.
- Bowl by Duncan Ross, 2002. Estimate: € 1,000-1,500.
Bonhams currently holds the world auction record for a work by Hans Coper, with a tall bottle vase with disc sold in London on 4 October 2022 for £655,500.
Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and collectables, collectors’ cars and a luxury division, which includes jewellery, designer fashion, watches, wine, and whisky. In 2021 and 2022, Bonhams made a number of important acquisitions which form the wider Bonhams network. These include: Bukowskis, Bruun Rasmussen, Bonhams Skinner and Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr.
Top lots for 2022 included a 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder (Sold for US$4,185,000), a pair of blue and white octagonal candlesticks (Sold for HK$30,453,00/ US$3,911,913), La femme en rouge au fond bleu by Chaïm Soutine (Sold for £1,842,300/ US$2,236,940), and a rare emerald and diamond Cartier bracelet (Sold for US$3,240,375).
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Story submitted by Bonhams. The World Art News (WAN) is not liable for the content of this publication. All statements and views expressed herein are opinions only. Act at your own risk. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. © The World Art News
With far-right candidate Javier Milei slightly ahead in polls before the 19 November election, Argentina’s resilient cultural sector braces for turmoil
Organisation pledges to back initiatives linking museums with local communities for anniversary project
BY JEREMY BROWN
In the midst of the American Revolution, a fervor for independence and a newfound sense of national identity inspired a wave of creativity that would forever shape the artistic landscape of the United States. From stirring political cartoons to iconic portraits of revolutionary leaders, American artists of the 18th century played a crucial role in capturing the spirit of the times. Today, their work stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to reflect and influence the course of history.
A Canvas of Revolution
As colonists sought to break free from British rule, artists found their voices in the call for liberty. Political cartoons, such as those by Paul Revere and Benjamin Edes, became potent tools of protest, disseminating revolutionary ideas to a wide audience. These artists used their ink and paper to criticize British policies and rally support for the revolutionary cause.
“The Boston Massacre” by Paul Revere, 1770
A stirring engraving depicting the deadly confrontation between British soldiers and colonial civilians, fueling anti-British sentiment.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Portraits of Patriots
Prominent figures of the American Revolution were not only immortalized in history books but also on canvas. Renowned portrait painters like Gilbert Stuart and Charles Willson Peale captured the likenesses of leaders such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. These portraits not only preserved the physical appearances of these revolutionary figures but also conveyed their strength and determination, inspiring generations to come.
“Portrait of George Washington” by Gilbert Stuart, 1796
One of the most famous portraits of Washington, capturing his stern yet noble demeanor.
National Portrait Gallery
The Art of Allegiance
In addition to political statements, artists expressed their patriotic fervor through symbolic representations. Allegorical paintings, such as John Trumbull’s “Declaration of Independence,” depicted key moments of the Revolution, imbuing them with a timeless significance. These works often featured allegorical figures representing concepts like liberty, justice, and the spirit of the American people, reinforcing the ideals for which the revolutionaries fought.
“Declaration of Independence” by John Trumbull, 1818
An iconic depiction of the drafting committee presenting the Declaration of Independence to Congress.
United States Capitol
“Washington Crossing the Delaware” by Emanuel Leutze, 1851
Captures George Washington’s bold river crossing, a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Revolutionary Artifacts
Beyond paintings and prints, everyday objects became canvases for revolutionary expression. Silversmiths crafted intricate tea sets and spoons adorned with patriotic motifs, transforming mundane items into symbols of resistance. These artifacts, many of which are now housed in museums, serve as tangible reminders of the revolutionary spirit that infused all aspects of American life during this period.
“The Death of General Warren at the Battle of Bunker Hill” by John Trumbull, 1786
Depicts the death of Joseph Warren, a prominent patriot leader, during the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Museum of Fine Arts
“Surrender of Lord Cornwallis” by John Trumbull, 1820
Illustrates the surrender of British General Cornwallis to George Washington, marking a significant turning point in the war.
United States Capitol
Legacy and Influence
The impact of American revolutionary art reverberates through the centuries, shaping the nation’s artistic identity and political discourse. Artists continue to draw inspiration from the themes of liberty, justice, and democracy that first emerged during the Revolution. Museums and galleries across the country preserve and showcase these invaluable works, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the artistic legacy of America’s fight for independence.
“The Battle of Lexington” by Amos Doolittle, 1775
A vivid representation of the first battle of the American Revolution, emphasizing the bravery of colonial militiamen.
New York Public Library
“The Siege of Yorktown” by Louis-Charles-Auguste Couder, 1836
Depicts the decisive battle where British forces, under General Cornwallis, surrendered to the combined American and French forces.
Galerie des Batailles
“Molly Pitcher at the Battle of Monmouth” by Dennis Malone Carter, 1854
Commemorates the legendary Molly Pitcher, a woman who carried water to soldiers and took her husband’s place at the cannon after he fell in battle.
Fraunces Tavern Museum
These paintings, among others, continue to captivate audiences, offering glimpses into the courage, sacrifice, and determination of those who fought for American independence. As we admire these masterpieces, we honor the artists who preserved the revolutionary spirit on canvas, ensuring that the legacy of the American Revolution lives on for generations to come.
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The World Art News (WAN) is not liable for the content of this publication. All statements and views expressed herein are opinions only. Act at your own risk. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. © The World Art News
Herbert Smith Freehills, which runs an “oil and gas” division, replaces BP
Palm trunk work located in AlUla addresses environmental issues
Funded by the tiny Nordic nation’s then thriving financial sector, the exhibition venue was an incubator for creative talent from Ragnar Kjartansson and Olafur Eliasson to Sigur Rós and Björk
Zewditu Gebreyohanes said she had made the decision six months ago, and that it was not connected to members rejecting the group’s councillors and resolutions at the weekend’s general meeting
The painting had been looted at the battle of Maqdala in 1868, but is now in the possession of a Portuguese collector