You can view these Zsolnay ceramics for free in Budapest, and even buy them later! – photos
Virág Judit Gallery will hold the world’s only Zsolnay auction on 17 November. This will be the fifth such event, followed closely by collectors from several continents, as Zsolnay ceramics have become some of the most sought-after porcelain pieces worldwide. This year, the public will be able to see true showpieces, including a special large planter appearing on the market for the first time. The auction exhibition can be viewed free of charge at Virág Judit Gallery between 4 and 16 November.
Zsolnay: A true Hungarian cultural treasure
Interest in this year’s Zsolnay auction, held by Virág Judit Gallery, is exceptionally high. It is the only auction in the world where bidding is exclusively for Zsolnay pieces. Collectors from many countries are expected to participate, including from outside Europe, such as the United States and Asia. The current world record for a Zsolnay item was also set at this auction: in both 2023 and 2024, buyers paid HUF 28 million (EUR 72,500) for a single large Zsolnay porcelain work. Demand for the manufactory’s creations remains strong, and the value of pieces from the 170-year-old brand has been steadily increasing for years.
“Zsolnay is a genuine hungarikum, which has become one of the world’s most valuable brands. At the moment, the Virág Judit Gallery auction is setting the trends on the market. The most special objects from across the globe arrive here, often with surprising new discoveries,” said István Törő, co-owner of Virág Judit Gallery. “The auction on 17 November will feature 71 lots. The selection satisfies collectors of every era and style within Zsolnay’s history,” he added.
Prepare for bidding in the tens of millions
The auction will be held on 17 November at 6 p.m. at the Budapest Music Center. One of the highlights will be a giant planter from 1906, whose motifs combine the panoramic scenes of the famous cigar vases. Experts were unaware of its existence for decades – its pair was part of the Schmutz Collection in Vienna. With its vivid colours and unique design, this unexpectedly surfaced piece is a true rarity. Its starting price is HUF 12 million (EUR 31,000), while its estimated value (HUF 24–36 million/EUR 62,000–93,000) even exceeds the current world record.
Another exceptional rarity is a plate designed by Júlia Zsolnay, daughter of Vilmos Zsolnay, the founder who established the manufactory’s fame. Júlia was among the factory’s most talented artists, and this plate is considered a highlight of the historicist style. The unique ceramic piece from 1889 depicts a Japanese woman fishing, and its value lies in its remarkably intricate decorative techniques. The starting price for the plate is HUF 3 million.
Free viewing available until mid-November
Collectors also show great interest in an Art Nouveau masterpiece created around 1907–1908 by Lajos Mack. The piece titled Lady with Leopard features the distinctive use of blue labrador glaze, resulting in at least thirty shades of blue visible on the vase. This imposing piece has a starting price of HUF 12 million (EUR 31,000), with an estimated value of HUF 24–36 million (EUR 62,000–93,000).
All ceramics up for auction can be viewed free of charge from 4 to 16 November at the gallery in the city centre (1055 Budapest, Falk Miksa Street 30).
Virág Judit Gallery has been one of the key innovators in the Hungarian auction scene for nearly 30 years. For the autumn/winter season, the gallery is introducing a new feature: a timed online auction will also be held on 23 November. The exclusive online sale – which will also include Zsolnay items – will begin at 6 p.m., and bids can already be placed in advance on the gallery’s website.