LOS ANGELES, CA.- Bonhams Modern Design | Art auction will present an important collection of museum-quality studio ceramics on October 25 in Los Angeles, included in a selection of over 300 lots spanning Art Nouveau and Mid-Century Modern to Arts & Crafts and Contemporary Studio Design.

Of particular note is the collection from renowned artist Vicci Sperry (1990-1995). Immersed in the Abstract Expressionist movement of the 20th century, Sperry worked in a largely male-dominated field, exploring abstraction and spiritualism through a new modern approach to painting. She studied under Hans Hofmann and exhibited her work in galleries in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, where she eventually settled in 1960. Sperry was an avid collector and patron of the arts, noted for purchasing Jackson Pollock’s last known painting, and her collection included exceptional works from revered Modern ceramicists, such as Peter Voulkos and Gertrud and Otto Natzler. Sperry championed their work during the height of their creative careers and prior to the increasing market interest seen today.

Offered in the upcoming sale are several superlative pieces from these artists. Of note is Untitled (Stacked Vessel) (1973) by Peter Voulkos (1924-2002), a monumental piece emblematic of his Modern approach to ceramics that rejected craft formality and form. The expressive stoneware vessel is estimated at $50,000 – 70,000.

Renowned for their delicate forms and exceptional glazes, husband and wife duo Gertrud Natzler (1908-1973) and Otto Natzler (1908-2007), created some of the finest ceramics of the 20th century. A highlight of the sale, Double-Curved Vase (1962), was exhibited in retrospectives of their work at The Los Angeles Country Museum of Art and Smithsonian and is offered for $8,000 – 12,000.