A Feline Masterpiece

Stacey’s Auctioneers and Valuers is set to delight art enthusiasts and cat lovers alike with an exceptional piece of British Contemporary Art – a rare ceramic cat crafted by the renowned artist David Hockney during his art school years. According to a report by Artnet News, this unique sculpture is going under the hammer this season.

A Gift from Hockney

The ceramic cat, valued between £30,000 and £40,000 (approximately $36,400 – $48,450), holds a special place in the art world. It was originally a heartfelt gift from Hockney to Peter and Wendy Richards of Bedfordshire in 1955, while the artist was still a student at Bradford School of Art.

The Rainy Encounter

The story behind this artwork is as charming as the piece itself. During their student days, Hockney and his friend Norman Stevens often embarked on hitchhiking adventures to art exhibitions across the United Kingdom. In 1955, while returning to London, their journey was interrupted by a heavy rainstorm. Seeking shelter, the two artists found refuge under the eaves of the Richards’ cottage.

The Gift of Artistry

Grateful for the warmth and kindness of Peter and Wendy Richards, Hockney gifted them this ceramic cat, which is believed to be the first of six similar cat sculptures he created and shared as gifts with people he met on his travels. The sculpture was sent to the Richards via mail, and this gesture sparked a lasting connection between the artist and the couple.

A Cherished Correspondence

Hockney’s relationship with the Richards extended beyond this initial gift. He maintained contact with them over the years, sending letters and drawings, making their bond more than just an artistic connection.

A Valuable Collectible

Hockney’s ceramic cat is not only a sentimental treasure but a valuable collectible. Similar works by the artist have achieved remarkable prices at auctions in the past. In 2011, Bonhams sold a Hockney ceramic cat for £40,000 ($48,309), and just this June, Christie’s auctioned another for an impressive £94,000 ($114,426).

More Hockney Artefacts on the Block

In addition to the ceramic cat, the upcoming auction will feature a large ceramic dish designed by Hockney in collaboration with Norman Stevens, as well as two woodblock and hand-painted cards. Art enthusiasts and collectors will have the opportunity to bid on these remarkable pieces when the auction commences on October 23. This event promises to be a celebration of the artistic legacy of David Hockney, providing art lovers with a chance to own a piece of his creative history.

Feature Image: Stacey’s Auctioneers and Valuers have titled the work “the cat of kindness.”COURTESY STACEY’S AUCTIONEERS AND VALUERS

An early work by David Hockney discovered on antiques roadshow