Expected to fetch around £100,000-150,000, it may not be a 'big money' collection, but its range of fresh-to-market Pilkington, Della Robbia, Martinware and Doulton is certain to excite the UK, US and European ceramic collecting fraternity.
David Lambert was born in Birkenhead in 1946, a stone's throw from the Della Robbia collection at Oxton's Williamson Art Gallery, so it was natural that a piece of his 'birthright' Della Robbia should kick-start a 30-year buying spree.
His first purchase was a Della Robbia cake stand by Ann Walker bought for £29 from William Courtney Antiques in 1975 and it was followed by many acquisitions sourced from fairs and auctions as well as UK dealers.
One of the highlights from the 39 Della Robbia entries offered is this striking 20 1/2in (52cm) high twin-handled bottle vase and stopper (shown right) dating to 1903, by Cassandia Ann Walker. "It is a wonderful evocation of the Art Nouveau period both in form and subject matter," said Bonhams specialist Mark Oliver, who expects it to fetch £1500-2500.
However, Pilkington ceramics rather than Della Robbia form the core of the collection, with works by William Mycock, Gordon Forsyth, Richard Joyce, Charles Cundal and Gladys Rogers.
The lustre ware that dominates this 105-lot section promises to see some of the most spirited bidding as this market has seen a dramatic rise in value in recent years.
Two of the most evenly fired lustre ceramics are a
fish-decorated ovoid vase by Richard Joyce, expected to bring £1000-2000, and a vase by Gordon Forsyth decorated with angels, entered with
pre-sale hopes of £700-900.
For further information: contact 020 7468 8233.
