Rare Gwen John and Kyffin Williams works to headline major Welsh art auction

A major retrospective in Cardiff has prompted a surge in interest in a Welsh artist who has historically been outshone by her brother.

At a time when Gwen John’s work is enjoying renewed acclaim, cementing her as one of Wales’ most significant artists, a rare trio of her works will go under the hammer this April, alongside works by Sir Kyffin Williams, Kevin Sinnott and Donald McIntyre.

The Welsh Sale, a flagship event from leading auction house Rogers Jones Auctioneers, will feature Gwen John’s works among 400 Welsh paintings, ceramics and collectable items.

It comes at a moment of renewed attention on the artist, with National Museum Cardiff staging the first major retrospective on her work in more than 40 years, and marking 150 years since her birth.

Among the highlights is Three Women in Church (estimate £15,000–£20,000), a quietly powerful interior typical of John’s contemplative style, alongside Boy in Sailor’s Uniform (£12,000–£18,000) and Seated Boy (£9,000–£13,000).

Once overshadowed by her brother Augustus John’s bold and expressive persona, Gwen John is now widely regarded as the more enduring artist, aligning with Augustus’s own prediction that he would one day be known simply as her brother.

Her intimate, introspective works are increasingly recognised for their emotional depth and importance within the British art scene.

Ben Rogers Jones, Auctioneer, Valuer and Partner at Rogers Jones Auctioneers said: “We are seeing growing national and international demand for Welsh art, and Gwen John’s work sits at the heart of that. There is a real, and growing, appreciation now for the subtlety and quiet power of her drawings.”

Alongside the Gwen John works, the sale includes a prolific collection of 40 items from Sir Kyffin Williams, including oil paintings, prints, and handwritten letters, carrying a combined top estimate of more than £250,000.

The collection is led by principal oil painting St David’s Head (circa 1981) estimated at £45,000 – £65,000. Other highlights include Standing Stones at Penrhos Feilw (£25,000 – £35,000) and Sunset Yr Eifl (£20,000 – £30,000), showcasing some of the artist’s most iconic landscapes.

Ben added: “This is a golden time for the Welsh art scene, as we’ve seen record prices in the last five years, and artists like Kyffin and Gwen leading the charge.

“Demand for Welsh art has grown significantly all over the world and for Kyffin Williams in particular, increasingly we are seeing new collectors keen to have a small piece of Wales on the wall of their home, wherever they might live.”

The sale also features a more personal insight into Kyffin Williams’ life, with an archive of handwritten letters offering candid reflections on his work and often scathing commentary on the Welsh art scene to his trusted friends Claudia Williams and Gwilym Prichard.

Further highlights in the Welsh Sale include a major oil on linen by Welsh painter Kevin Sinnott (£10,000–£15,000), as well as Welsh pieces from Shani Rhys James, Donald McIntyre, and Gwen’s brother Augustus John.

Bringing together museum-quality works and accessible pieces for newer buyers, the auction offers a broad snapshot of Welsh art from the late 19th century to the present day.

The Welsh Sale will take place on 19th and 21st April at Rogers Jones’ Cardiff Saleroom. Part I will focus on Welsh artwork, including works by Gwen John and Sir Kyffin Williams, while Part II will feature Welsh furniture, ceramics, books, and unreserved Welsh art.

For more information, visit: https://www.rogersjones.co.uk/en/sales/2026/4/19/the-welsh-sale or email [email protected]