David Hockney’s Ceramic Cat (1955). Photo courtesy of Stacey’s Auctioneers

The record-breaking sale of David Hockney’s Ceramic Cat reveals a tale of artistic gratitude and global appeal.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

In a remarkable event at Stacey’s Auctioneers and Valuershttps://www.staceyauction.com/ in Essex County, the art world recently witnessed the soaring success of a Ceramic Cat crafted by the renowned David Hockney. Gifted to a couple who provided shelter to the young artists during a perilous storm in 1955, the cat fetched an astonishing £111,875 ($136,000) at the auction, surpassing all expectations.

The story behind the creation of the Ceramic Cat is as daring as it is intriguing. In 1955, during a harrowing storm, David Hockney and fellow artist Norman Stevens found themselves in imminent danger. With nowhere else to go, they took refuge with Peter and Wendy Richards, students of the Bradford School of Art. As a gesture of gratitude, Hockney crafted the now-famous ceramic cat, among other artistic expressions.

Anticipating a significant sale, Stacey’s Auctioneers expected the artwork to fetch at least £40,000 ($48,309). Surpassing this estimate, the final price not only exceeded expectations but also outperformed the £100,000 ($121,670) achieved at Christie’s in June.

Significance of the Ceramic Cat

The ceramic cat’s uniqueness lies not only in its association with Hockney’s early works but also in being the only one of six with a black-and-white palette, symbolizing the Richards’ family cat. Measuring 34.5 by 40 by 15.5 centimeters, the cat stands out not just in size but in its monochromatic elegance.

The bidding war for this masterpiece transcended the confines of the auction room. Online and telephone bidders, both from the U.K. and globally, vied for ownership. Ultimately, the cat found a home with an anonymous U.K. buyer.

The record-breaking sale sharply contrasts with a previous auction at Bonhams in 2011, where a similar cat fetched £40,000 ($48,309). Its rarity as the only black-and-white cat by Hockney contributes to its increased value, making it a sought-after piece for art collectors.

Mark Stacey, expressing joy for the vendor, highlighted that the auction proceeds were intended to benefit the vendor’s grandchildren, adding a heartwarming dimension to the sale. He emphasized the global interest in this auction as a testament to the enduring appeal of Hockney’s artwork, transcending geographical boundaries.

A Lasting Friendship

The friendship between Hockney and the Richards family persisted beyond that stormy day. Over the years, they maintained contact, exchanging gifts. Additional items, including woodblock cards and a large ceramic dish, showcased the enduring bond between the artists and the Richards. During Frieze week, the arty cat, along with other Hockney items, was on display at Grosvenor Gallery in London.

While Hockney is renowned for his love of painting animals, especially his cheeky dachshunds, the ceramic cat reveals a different facet of his artistic repertoire. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the seller’s grandchildren.

The unexpected success of the ceramic cat auction not only adds a new chapter to Hockney’s artistic legacy but also emphasizes the timeless and global allure of his creations. From a stormy night of gratitude to a record-breaking auction, this Ceramic Cat stands as a testament to the enduring impact of art and the connections it creates across time and space.