A POTTER'S JOURNEY | COLLECTING STUDIO CERAMICS

The second part of the studio ceramic collection from renowned South African potter and collector Peter Jaff will feature in a special timed auction hosted by Chorley’s Auctioneers this November.

A Potter’s Journey: The Peter Jaff Collection Part II will feature a curated selection of treasured pieces from his personal collection gathered over 40+ years, showcasing a deep appreciation for studio pottery and craftsmanship.

Chorley’s Director Werner Freundel said “We are delighted to offer this rare opportunity for collectors and art enthusiasts to acquire pieces that reflect Jaff’s keen eye as a collector.”

The timed event runs from 4pm on 29 November to 6pm on 8 December 2024, View the auction here from the 29th.

The Peter Jaff collection is being offered in two parts, the first auction took place at Maak London in late November and continues at Chorley’s.

A Potter’s journey: Collecting studio ceramics

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 craftsmanship, 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 (before 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.

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 Lucy Rie piece. This quest led me to  Maureen Michelson, a London-based gallery owner and collector. 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.   

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.

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 crafts 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 all 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