Introduction
Maximilian Gustav Alfred Cecil Michaelis (born Cabourg, France 19 August 1913-died Aix-en-Provence 3 May 1997), was an artist who also practised in glass and ceramics, and a philanthropist who encouraged crafts and design. He was the only son of Sir Max Michaelis, a South African randlord.
Early life and education
Cecil Michaelis was born in Cabourg in 1913, the son of Sir Max Michaelis, a British citizen of German-Jewish extraction who was a self-made Randlord in South Africa, and Lady Lillian Elizabeth Michaelis (?-1969, London). He studied at the Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art in Oxford, and then moved to Paris where he studied under Henri Dimier and Othon Friesz, and was advised by Georges Rouault and Andre Derain.
Career
Although his family wealth precluded a formal career, Michaelis worked tirelessly at his art, drawing and sculpture whilst dividing his time between France, South Africa and Great Britain. In 1935 Sir Max Michaelis purchased Rycote Park near Thame in Oxfordshire, for Cecil's use while he was studying at the Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art in Oxford. It remained one of his residences until his death.
Exhibitions
His work was exhibited widely from 1940 to 1980 in Paris, New York and London.