Overview
A whimsical, unglazed or matte-finished ceramic figurine of a seated nude woman, part of the 'Muse' collection. It features Adler's signature surrealist style with exaggerated features and a playful, minimalist aesthetic.
Preliminary identification
Jonathan Adler 'Eve' Ceramic Figurine
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Jonathan Adler launched his pottery career in 1993 at Barneys New York. This piece belongs to his 'Muse' collection, which replaces traditional patterns with body parts like faces and breasts to create a surrealist 'soul'.
Maker / Origin
Jonathan Adler is a world-renowned potter and designer who left a career in the movie business to return to his first love: clay. His work is defined by 'Modern American Glamour,' blending mid-century influences with a cheeky, irreverent sense of humor.
Condition & Value
The figurine appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips or cracks. The matte finish is prone to scuffing, but this example looks clean. Pristine condition maintains the higher end of the value range.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.