“Igniting Passions,” embodies the transformative power of art. Each stroke of a brush, every sculpted curve, and the collective expressions of the objects in this sale carry stories that transcend history. This auction is a gateway to such narratives, connecting with the intent and milieu of the country’s most important artists and artisans.
Among the extraordinary works presented in this auction is a rare early work by National Artist Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco. His 1938 Ang Aguinaldo, an oil on canvas from the collection of the MIB Capital Corporation (formerly Multinational Investment Bancorporation), distinctly reflects the early, post-impressionist style of the Master from Angono, hinting at the dramatic, flowing gestures and idealized heroic proportions that would define his subsequent grand-scale canvases and murals. Another major highlight of the sale also from the MIB collection is the bust of 19th century Filipino painter and hero Juan Luna y Novicio by his friend and fellow artist Mariano Benlliure. It is only the second known and confirmed bust portrait of Luna by Benlliure, and was casted in the 1920s from a mold created in Rome in 1884 when both Luna and Benlliure were students.
Taking center stage among the significant Philippine modernist works is a captivating oil on canvas by Anita Magsaysay-Ho, one of Asia’s most respected modernist masters, showing four women carrying baskets of pure sophistication and dignified elegance. This painting holds a special place in the artist’s oeuvre as it was personally gifted to Cesar Jacinto Lomotan, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of the Philippines.
Another modernist masterpiece is a 1956 oil on canvas by National Artist H.R. Ocampo, reflecting the seminal period of his burgeoning interest in non-objective painting. This work is from the collection of the Filipino industrialist Domingo M.Guevara, whose company pioneered manufacturing television, radios, and other appliances in the country under the ‘Radiowealth’ brand, and was also the first full-fledged auto manufacturer in the Philippines. He also created the first Filipino designed and fabricated vehicle called the ‘Sakbayan’ in the late 1960s.
Two works by Constancio Bernardo, who attended Yale University and studied under Josef Albers, one of the most influential abstractionists of the 20th century are also included in the ‘Important Philippine Art’ section of the sale, and is joined by works by National Artists Ang Kiukok, Jose Joya, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Arturo Luz, J. Elizalde Navarro, and BenCab; pioneering modernists Juvenal Sansó, Oscar Zalameda, Nena Saguil, Fernando Zobel, Romulo Olazo, and Malang; and renowned contemporary artists Lao Lianben, Emmanuel Garibay, Solomon Saprid, Betsy Westendorp, Ramon Orlina, and Santiago Bose; and trailblazers Rodel Tapaya, Jose John Santos III and Pam Yan-Santos, Alfredo Esquillo, Jr. and Andres Barrioquinto.
The ‘Connoisseur Collection’ section of The Well-Appointed Life boasts 19th century hardwood and antique furniture and decor, including an exquisite altar table with Olympic and Eagle motifs; marble top circular tables–one holding historic significance–made by the master artisan Ah Tay; and an outstandingly crafted 18th century relief of San Juan Evangelista. Ethnographic and indigenous art from the early to mid 20th century completes the collection, along with rare prints, maps, books, and other valuable collectibles.
More than a pinnacle auction by the country’s premier auction house, The Well-Appointed Life stands as testament to the fusion of creativity and history. It is an occasion to honor those who understand the potency of art to enrich lives.
The Well-Appointed Life live and online auction takes place on 16 September 2023 at 2PM. Preview runs from Thursday September 8 to Friday September 15 at the Salcedo Auctions, NEX Tower 6786 Ayala Avenue, Makati City. The gallery is open on Tuesdays to Fridays, 9AM-6PM and Saturdays, 9AM-4PM.
Register to bid for the upcoming The Well-Appointed Life September edition. Download the eCatalogue via this link.
For inquiries, email [email protected] or phone +63 917 825 7449 | +63 917 591 2191 | +63 917 107 5581. Follow @salcedoauctions on Instagram and Facebook.
