Blue Cat with Kittens (2026) Original Clay Sculpture by Elya Yalonetski

My work is decorative and old school, rooted in the pleasure of making something well rather than making a statement. That approach suits this family of three particularly well. There is something unusually self-possessed about them, as if their characters were already there and the clay simply gave them form.

The central figure, larger than the kittens and clearly in charge, wears an Elizabethan ruff of impressive proportions. His mustache curls into two immaculate flourishes, and his deep green eyes have the calm confidence of someone entirely at ease with his place in the world. He holds a golden fish—not quite a trophy, but certainly a symbol of rank. On either side, two cobalt kittens with warm calico markings clutch smaller fish, their expressions intensely focused. Here, fish seem to function as currency, status and affection all at once.

Hand-built from clay and glazed in indigo, cobalt and warm gold, with delicate pink undertones worked into the surface, the three pieces can be displayed as hanging ornaments or arranged together as a freestanding group. Each has a loop for hanging and looks especially striking suspended from ribbon, while the set also makes a wonderfully eccentric little presence on a shelf, mantel or table.

Entirely hand-built and one of a kind, the set is available only as a complete group of three.

Coins on the picture are for size reference.

Materials used:

clay, engobe, glaze

Details:

• Clay sculpture on Other
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 24 x 20 x 15cm / 20 x 20cm (actual image size)
• Ready to hang
• Signed on the back
• Style: Expressive and gestural
• Subject: Animals and birds