Prestigious ceramic artists from Japan, Denmark, Belgium, and across the UK have all donated work for the sale, proving just how important the small Cornish studio is. A number of rare works are included amongst the lots, with many pieces expected to go for significant amounts.

“It is tremendous to have so many highly respected potters contributing to this auction,” said Lady Carol Holland, Chair of the Restoration Project. “This is testament to the memory and ethos of Bernard Leach and the money raised will help us create and support the final requirements for this invaluable restoration project.”

		Lot 25: Jack Doherty, a deep bowl, 2007. Estimate: £200-250. Courtesy Bonhams

The Leach Pottery has been undergoing a major restoration project since 2006 and will re-open to the public on March 7 2008. Funding for the project has come from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the European Regional Development Fund, Arts Council England South West, Rural Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Partnership, Penwith District Council, Cornwall County Council and St. Ives Town Council.

However, additional funds are still needed to complete the fitting out of the new pottery studios and it is hoped that this auction will contribute significantly to the project achieving its aspirations.

With the Leach Pottery rebuild nearing completion, an exhibition that celebrates Bernard Leach's life and work is being prepared for show onsite by Emmanuel Cooper, Leach's biographer. Accredited as the father of the studio ceramic tradition, Bernard Leach is one of the biggest international names of the 20th century in the field of ceramics.

The cottage and pottery in St Ives retains much of its early 20th century atmosphere. Tim Cuff © ACE

Viewing is available at Bonhams on Monday and Tuesday, February 25 and 26, from 9am until 4:30pm. A collectors’ edition of the catalogue will also be available to purchase at Bonhams, with all proceeds going to the Leach Pottery restoration.

"This will be an opportunity to buy some outstanding work in support of a vital project to protect and maintain a key part of Britain's ceramic history - the studio of Bernard Leach which has indisputedly shaped the field and may now continue to do so," Bonhams’ Head of Contemporary Ceramics, Marijke Jones.

The auction will be held at Bonhams, 101 New Bond Street, London, on Tuesday February 26 with a reception starting at 5:30pm before the auction commences at 6:30pm. The catalogue is now available to view on line on the Bonhams website.

For more information about the Leach Pottery restoration, go to www.theleachpotterystives.co.uk.