Known in artistic circles as the 'Golden Greek', Lisa Sotilis was born in Athens in 1939. She trained first in Athens and later at the Academy of Arts in Milan. Although she began her career as a painter and sculptor, she soon turned to jewellery design. Driven by a dissatisfaction with contemporary styles, she developed a distinctive approach that she described as 'micro-sculpture'. Sotilis showed exceptional promise early on: her first solo exhibition took place in Milan at just 16, followed by her international debut in Berlin two years later. Her work caught the attention of influential dealer Alexander Iolas, who exhibited her alongside major 20th century figures such as René Magritte, Andy Warhol, and her mentor Giorgio de Chirico.

Her creations have been collected by leading figures in the art world, including Salvador Dalí. In 1970, she entered an exclusive contract with Cartier to design watch dials and bezels. Her Milan residence on Via Dante became a vibrant cultural hub, frequented by personalities such as Warhol and Rudolf Nureyev.

Sotilis has exhibited internationally, with her work held in major museums and distinguished private collections. Reflecting on her creative drive, she once remarked, "I sleep three hours a day because my creativity never ends. When I tire of making jewellery which I call micro-sculptures I paint, I design furniture. I don't make traditional jewels; they are different, my way, because I have to recreate what I see in my dreams."

The upcoming auction presents a striking cuff earring by Lisa Sotilis, formed as a textured pierced leaf-shaped panel suspending a fringe of polished and textured discs from undulating wires. Another highlight is a pair of cufflinks with shaped panels and richly textured surfaces, embodying Sotilis’ distinctive aesthetic, characterised by tactile forms, organic movement and unmistakably hand-worked finishes.

The sale also includes two dress watches designed by Sotilis for Cartier. One features a circular silvered dial with gilt baton markers set within a broad hammered radiating bezel, while the other is distinguished by an oval dial enamelled in a rich blue lapis lazuli effect.

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Auction Details

Tuesday 16 June 2026, 10.30am BST
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

Bidding is available in person at our salerooms, online, by telephone or you can leave commission (absentee) bids.

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Tuesday 9 June: 10am-4pm
Wednesday 10 June: 10am-4pm

Dreweatts Newbury: Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE
Saturday 13 June: 10am-3pm
Sunday 14 June: 10am-3pm
Monday 15 June: 10am-4pm

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