Auctioneer Kev Kendal heads up two of our departments here at the auction house, but in this article, we get to see him on the other side of the bidding process, as a collector of tasteful erotica.
“Several years ago, when I was often getting asked to speak for various groups on my life as an auctioneer and valuer I was often asked “What do you collect?”. My (what I thought humorous) answer was usually debts, but it got me thinking that I didn’t at that time have a personal collection of my own.
“When a relatively inexpensive piece of resin artwork came into an auction one day, modelled as two lovers in an embrace, I knew that I had to purchase it and start my collection of “lovers” given me at least some new material for my “stand up” routine!
“This collection soon grew from here and I now have a modest array of very tasteful studies, all on this very theme, scattered throughout my humble abode, and guess that’s often how the collecting bug gets caught.
“You pick a theme and before long you are hooked!
“Although I do also have a few pictures and prints adorning the walls, Gustav Klimt being a personal favourite, I most certainly am not the most prolific of collectors in this field, and for me it has to be kept classy as collecting tasteful erotica is a refined and deeply personal pursuit that blends artistic appreciation with an exploration of human sensuality.
“Far from being vulgar or exploitative, tasteful erotica celebrates the beauty of the human form, intimacy, and emotional connection. As with any form of art collection, it requires a discerning eye, a respect for the subject matter, and an understanding of context and history.
“When building a collection, provenance, condition, and artistic merit are key. Reputable galleries, auction houses, and specialized online platforms can be valuable sources. It’s also important to understand the legal and cultural boundaries around erotica in your region, as what is considered tasteful in one context may not be in another.
“Historically, erotica has been part of art and literature for centuries, from Japanese shunga woodblock prints to the provocative sketches of Egon Schiele and the romantic photography of the 20th century from the likes of Helmut Newton and Imogen Cunningham. Works often challenge societal norms, sometimes delving into realms of fantasy but should maintain a sense of elegance and emotional depth.
“Collectors are drawn to erotica not for shock value but for its ability to provoke thought and feeling, much like any other art form.
“Tasteful erotica can take many forms—vintage photography, hand-drawn illustrations, sculpture and books. The common thread is the intention behind the work: it should evoke intimacy, vulnerability, or sensuality without resorting to objectification or gratuitousness.
“Above all, collecting tasteful erotica is about personal expression and curating a space where sensuality and beauty are acknowledged with respect. Whether displayed openly or kept private, these works often reflect the collector’s values, curiosities, and appreciation for the complexity of desire. In this way, erotica becomes not just art for the eyes, but for the mind and spirit as well.”