The November auction includes the enviable collection built over a 50 year period by the South African potter and collector, Peter Jaff.
Read more about Peter's lifetime of collecting, in his own words.
I was born in South Africa, where my father was engaged in the fashion industry, and my mother, with her flair for interior decoration and colour adorned our home with South African paintings and a collection of hand-made glass. From an early age I developed a keen appreciation for creativity and craftmanship, yet it was clay above all other mediums that ultimately captured my imagination.
My journey into ceramics began in the 1970s after receiving a Tim Morris pot and encountering the work of Hym Rabinowitz . These artists with their distinctive approaches nurtured my interest in British ceramics. In the late 1970s I began classes in the studio of renowned South African potter Digby Hoets. This enduring relationship remains of great value to me to this day.
Soon after, I established my own studio, throwing and firing pots, experimenting with various techniques and shapes, exploring the potential and texture of the medium and making my own clay bodies and glazes. I broadened my knowledge and skills through an extensive book collection and audio - visual library (prior to the days of YouTube). The thrill of creating both functional and decorative forms from a lump of clay with careful attention to structure, proportion and beauty became a source of immense satisfaction. My work focuses on functional pieces crafted in stoneware and porcelain fired in an electric kiln.
Peter working with John Gibson
As my involvement in ceramics grew, I became an active committee member of the South African Association of Potters and had work regularly featured in regional and national exhibitions and built a collection of local ceramics. I take pride in the fact that my work can be found in the Durban and Kimberley art galleries and the National Corobrik Collection at the University of Pretoria.
My fascination with British ceramics was further fuelled by the pursuit of a Lucie Rie piece. This quest led me to Maureen Michelson, a London- based gallery owner and collector, to secure a coveted bowl in 1987, now on auction. Annual trips to London became an integral part of my collecting journey with visits to the London Craft Council and the Craft Potters Association, resulting in many treasured acquisitions transported carefully to Johannesburg in our luggage. The arrival of The Ceramic Review regularly kept me updated on British ceramic trends.
Lot 65: Lucie Rie (Austrian/British, 1902-1995): Flared Footed Bowl, circa 1970 | Est. £25,000-35,000
The joy of collecting ceramics and meeting the talented makers has always been an inspiring aspect of this journey. Over the years, many UK based potters visited South Africa to judge the South African Biennale and conduct workshops. I attended many of these given by renowned potters including John Gibson, Sandy Brown, John Maltby, Ruthanne Tudball, Toff Millway and Magdalene Odundo. My wife Ros and I also had the pleasure of hosting Sasha Wardell and Kate Malone. A personal highlight was participating in John Gibson’s first workshop on the island of Bornholm, Denmark. Additionally, unforgettable studio visits to Kate Malone and Jennifer Lee stand out fondly in my memory.
Peter with Kate Malone
The advent of online auctions has made it increasingly convenient to pursue my passion, allowing me to acquire unique and innovative pieces that resonated with me.
Living with these works has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Every piece in the collection was carefully curated and displayed throughout our home alongside our South African ceramics and art and craft collection. Each item was meticulously lit and provided continuous stimulation, admiration and inspiration, reflecting both the artist’s imagination and the profound pride and pleasure of collecting.
To those beginning their journey in studio ceramics I would recommend focussing on pieces that appeal to personal tastes and not only following trends. Collect what you love and don’t be afraid to bid high for something truly special. Each piece in my collection was purchased with love, but above reflects my maker’s understanding and respect for the craft.
We were privileged custodians and hope future buyers will derive as much pleasure and delight in obtaining and holding the pieces which have delighted me and my family for over 45 years.
Peter Jaff
VIEW AUCTION HERE
The Peter Jaff Collection
