Special Kintsugi Auction in aid of Cancer Research UK
7th – 18th September 2026
I contacted some of the most outstanding restaurants in the UK, asked them to donate a broken plate or bowl…or 2… so that I could repair them using the traditional kintsugi method and then auction them in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Kintsugi is rooted in values of finding beauty in imperfection, embracing transience, and honouring scars rather than concealing them. Traditional kintsugi uses only urushi lacquer, which doesn’t dry but cures over time, growing stronger as the repair sets. What was once broken can become both stronger and more beautiful—a powerful metaphor for life, especially for those of us living with cancer.
Please click here to see a preview of all the finished pieces.
Every single penny will go to Cancer Research UK. Tennants are very generously waving their commission, and all other costs are covered.
- Each piece has been repaired using urushi lacquer and finished with 23.75 carat gold, with the exception of one which was finished in silver, as it suited it best.
- HUGE THANK YOU to Tennants Auctioneers, who are hosting the online auction; to Joe Hannaghan for taking all the photographs for the Auction [unless otherwise stated] and some of the videos; to Gold Leaf Supplies for donating 2 grams of 23.75 carat gold; to Kite Packaging for donating 60 boxes for when we send out the pieces to the respective buyers – and of course, to the restaurants whose donations made this possible.
- Please note that all the pieces in this auction have been in service in high end restaurants and will have some wear – they are not new.
- Please read the Further Notes and Buyers’ Notes for important information.
