Monthly ART Sale of the Year Offers a Wide Range and Value in Selected Mediums
As the art world awakens for a new year, Strauss & Co is leading the charge with its impressive lineup of online auctions for February 2026. Notably, this month’s offering is rich in variety, featuring a broad selection of art to appeal to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. The timed online auctions kicked off recently and will culminate with the closing of bids at 2 PM on February 9 and 10.
The auction format mirrors Strauss & Co’s established model, aiming to present collectable and captivating artworks accessible to a diverse audience. This strategic focus is particularly salient given the upcoming flagship sales coinciding with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair later in February. To cater to varying tastes, the auction is divided into five distinct sessions, each centered around specific mediums.
One notable section of the auction is the ‘Art Club,’ a curated selection aimed specifically at introducing newer collectors to the vibrant landscape of contemporary art. This initiative builds on Strauss & Co’s history of offering educational talks and exhibitions in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The first Art Club event of 2026 will unfold in Johannesburg on February 3, providing attendees a fantastic opportunity to engage with the art community. Expect works from renowned artists such as William Kentridge, Robert Hodgins, Ayanda Mabulu, and Simphiwe Ndzube, as well as pieces reflecting South Africa’s rich mid-century Modernist tradition.
As the auction progresses, two focused sales will take place on February 10. The first, ‘Faces and Figures,’ showcases an intriguing assortment of artworks that delve into the theme of human representation across various styles and periods. Highlights include a remarkable self-portrait by the illustrious Walter Battiss, alongside a collection of satirical figures by the celebrated painter and printmaker Robert Hodgins. Collectors will find a treasure trove in this segment, reflecting diverse artistic interpretations of the human form.
In a touching tribute, a unique single-owner collection of ceramics will also close on February 10. The ‘Peter Jaff Collection of Contemporary South African Ceramics’ celebrates an avid collector and artist who passed away at the end of 2025. Peter Jaff was not only a dedicated aficionado but also provided invaluable advice to budding collectors, encouraging them to focus on personal taste rather than fleeting trends. His philosophy of curating a collection based on love and respect for the craft resonates throughout this exceptional offering.
The fourth auction in this month’s lineup features a captivating selection of art books curated from private collections, aptly titled ‘Close Reference.’ This part of the auction, ending on February 11, highlights essential literature from key South African collectors. Noteworthy titles include rare volumes by the modernist icon Irma Stern, as well as significant publications on renowned artists such as Maggie Laubser and JH Pierneef. This literary segment not only honors the legacy of these artists but also enhances the understanding of their art through critical writings.
The diverse range of auctions ensures there is something for everyone, including genuine collector’s gems that are hard to resist. If you’re interested in joining the bidding process, the online registration and bidding platform is user-friendly, making it accessible for all.
Upcoming Auctions:
Looking ahead, two special themed auctions will take place later in February, promising even more exciting offerings:
· Hair Matters: A Selection of Works from the Georgina Jaffee Collection will be a live and virtual event in Cape Town on February 21 at 4 PM.
· Portway to Cohen: A Collector’s Legacy will follow as another themed live virtual auction on the same day at 6 PM.