Catriona had a keen eye and paired many pottery items with the original prints from which their designs were taken. Where possible, Lyon & Turnbull will be selling these prints with the associated piece. The Maisels had a large collection of ceramics reference books and journals, many of which are now in the National Library of Scotland. One of the journals was a complete run from 1928-2015, and many others were complete runs from the 1970s. Catriona contributed many academic papers to the journals, which she co-authored with David.
David created a meticulously curated database of the collection, in which he demonstrated his scientific study of individual pieces, noting many specific features such as handle shape, translucency, border patterns, or describing how a foot rim was formed and finished. David, who’s surgeon’s hands were also skilled at carpentry, even made bespoke cabinets to display the smaller pieces to good effect.
Both were enthusiastic members of various Scottish and UK ceramics clubs and societies such as “The Kiln Club”, “Friends of Blue” and “The Spode Society”. They regularly travelled around the country visiting antiques fairs and enjoyed the opportunity to travel and make new friends that their collecting gave them. Many of their pals have fond memories of attending annual barbeques at their home in Strathtummel. These are recalled as generously hosted gatherings with a mix of people united by their common interest in ceramics.
What is charming about the collection is the variety. Different periods, makers and styles are well represented and there are pieces that reflect the Maisels sense of humour, such as comical animal ‘pirlie pig’ penny banks, and a Prattware pepper pot modelled as a man squatting with his trousers down. Part II of the collection includes early English porcelain, with Liverpool examples; dry bodied wares; stoneware; Regency teawares; an extensive range of blue and white transfer printed pottery, with Scottish and Welsh examples; and Scottish pottery including Dunmore.
Catriona passed away in 2022, followed by David in 2023. Prior to his death David had made arrangements for the collection to be offered for sale in Scotland by Lyon and Turnbull. Part I of the collection was received with great enthusiasm when it was sold in November 2024. We are now pleased to bring Part II of the collection to market where pieces will pass into new hands and homes.
*All sold prices include buyer's premium.
