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Phillips Unveils the Most Important Group of Works by Lucie Rie and Hans Coper to Ever Come to Auction
Lucie Rie and Hans Coper, Exceptional Ceramics: Selections from the Estate of Jane Coper and the former Collection of Cyril Frankel
To be Sold at Phillips London on 1 November 2023
Domenico Raimondo, Head of Design, Europe and Senior International Specialist, said, “These unparalleled collections present a unique opportunity to acquire some of the masterworks that shaped the narrative of British Studio Ceramics. These pieces are intimately linked to the personal lives and artistic partnerships of Lucie Rie and Hans Coper, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy. The sheer magnitude of these two collections, entwined with the central figures in the lives of these two potters, is extraordinary.”
Lucie Rie and Hans Coper Dame Lucie Rie (1902-1995) and Hans Coper (1920-1981) established themselves as pioneering forces in British Studio Ceramics, both finding refuge in the UK during the late 1930s to escape Nazi persecution in Austria and Germany. Rie, already an established potter, set up her home and workshop in Albion Mews, London. Initially focusing on crafting ceramic buttons for fashion houses in the years of post-war austerity, Rie was able to hone her expertise in creating glazes with exacting colour specifications, laying the foundations of her meticulous control over glazing techniques.
Without any prior ceramics training, Coper sought employment in Rie's workshop, where they first collaborated on buttons and later tableware. The start of a life-long friendship, Coper gave Rie the confidence to break away from attempting to follow the style of Bernard Leach, the prevailing figure in the pottery scene during this period. This led to Rie’s completely new approach to ceramics, with instantly recognisable bowls and vases with unique timeless forms and often a strong use of colour.
Initially, Coper's creations leaned towards large, powerfully thrown forms. Yet, due to declining health, his later work scaled down to a more manageable size. Coper’s final group of works, collectively known as the ‘Cycladic’ series, are rare and finely crafted pieces that hold significant value for collectors. Seven ‘Cycladic’ pieces will be offered in this sale.
Property from the Estate of Jane Coper Jane Coper (1932-2022), whose discerning eye and lifelong dedication to her husband Hans Coper’s work are manifest in this collection, was also an artist in her own right. Her intimate photographic records of Hans’s creative process offer a rare window into the life and art of this master potter. Yet, Jane’s influence extended beyond her photographic documentation, as her perceptive eye shaped our understanding and appreciation of the exceptional accomplishments of Lucie Rie and Hans Coper. Among the pieces coming from Jane Coper's collection are those intimately intertwined with her and Hans's daily life, including cherished favorites and perhaps prototypes or one-off creations. Additionally, the assortment includes numerous cherished gifts from Rie over the years. Notably, certain works from the Estate of Jane Coper were inherited via the Lucie Rie Trust.
Property formerly in the Collection of Cyril Frankel Cyril Frankel (1921-2017), celebrated director and filmmaker, became captivated by the world of British Studio Ceramics after acquiring a piece by Lucie Rie in 1953. This marked the beginning of a passionate collecting journey, ultimately leading to his influential role in elevating the recognition of modern potters. Frankel’s dynamic approach to arts coverage, including pioneering work on the BBC’s Monitor series, further solidified his legacy as a figure who championed the significance of contemporary studio pottery.
Cyril Frankel directly acquired Footed bowl from Lucie Rie in 1981. This exquisite piece featured in the 1982 Lucie Rie BBC Omnibus, directed by Cyril Frankel himself and narrated by Sir David Attenborough. The documentary coincided with a major retrospective exhibition of Rie's work at the Victoria and Albert Museum, which also marked her 80th birthday. The documentary captures Rie in her studio, engaging in her craft and discussing her artistic endeavors. A notable moment occurs when Rie retrieves this very bowl from the kiln, presenting it to Attenborough, who admires it with the exclamation, "That's a stunner!"
Auction: 1 November 2023 Auction viewing: 25 October to 1 November Location: 30 Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6EX Click here for more information
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