20th Century Art & Design November

Report and highlights of our November 2020 Auction

Our final 20th Century Art & Design sale of the year was a great success with impressive hammer prices being achieved across all departments. As has become the theme over the last few months viewing and bidding for this sale was limited to online only. Nevertheless, buyers came out in force to bid online via Wilson Live and other platforms with some notable prices achieved.

 

 

The highest selling lot of the afternoon was Lot 34, ‘Water Pouring into Swimming Pool, Santa Monica’ by David Hockney. The lithograph, made in 1964, soared over its high estimate making £10,200 hammer (£12,892.80 plus Buyers Premium (BP)). Although minimalist in its composition and use of colour the work really packs a punch and is quintessential of his work in the 60s where the suburban swimming pool became an unlikely muse. His 1967 painting ‘A Bigger Splash’, arguably his most well-known work, was clearly inspired by these early studies and prints.

 

 

My favourite lot of the Automobilia was Lot 61, a wonderful 1930’s photograph album. Even if classic cars don’t take your fancy this collection of photos was really quite delightful. Amongst the images were many candid photographs of groups of gentlemen gathered in overalls, each with an equally impressive moustache.  The lot achieved £360 (£455.04 plus BP) clearly catching the eyes of MG and Bugatti enthusiasts alike.

 

There were a large number of ceramics offered in the sale, ranging in style and scale. Whether it be a large Royal Copenhagen owl or four Minton cabinet cups and saucers the sale catered for all interests. My favourite ceramic lot of this auction was Lot 186, a John Maltby footed dish with a bird motif. More contemporary in style, this lot achieved £850 (£1,074.40 plus BP). Studio pottery is enjoying a resurgence as of late, exemplified by a number of John Maltby items selling above estimate in the auction, the bold designs clearly fitting the current household aesthetic.

 

 

There were several highlights in the furniture section of the sale. Lot 193, a Mouseman four drawer side cabinet sold for £1,900 (£2,318 plus BP) and a stylish PEL desk, Lot 206 sold for £950 (£1,159 plus BP). The main highlight however was Lot 205, a Japanese black lacquered four panelled folding room divider. This decorative piece really stood out in the saleroom, the bold crane design on a shimmering gold background taking centre stage and making £1,300 (£1,586 plus BP).

Our next 20th Century Art & Design sale is scheduled for Thursday 18th February 2021. If you have any items that you would like to be valued click here for a free online auction valuation. Throughout lockdown, we have enjoyed a consistently high selling rate with 85% of this auction selling. Please keep an eye out for our other forthcoming auctions in our online auction calendar. Our pre-Christmas Jewellery and Arms & Militaria catalogues are already online for your viewing pleasure.

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