Lalique crystal, Hermés ashtrays, Tiffany chargers as well as Botong Francisco drawings and Fernando Zobel watercolors are just some of the brilliant finds at the upcoming two-day online auction of León Exchange on July 27 and 28.
“There are numerous gems in the current sale. For the budding collector, we have quite a few introductory pieces such as paper works by the masters and several contemporary pieces to feed one’s interest in art. For the seasoned collector, on the other hand, there is just the right Art Deco armoire or Huanghuali piece to be discovered and cherished — not to mention Saprid sculptures that are just divine,” explains Jaime Ponce de Leon.
On the first day, July 27th, León Exchange has in focus “The Collectors’ Vault”, featuring many precious artworks, objects, as well as letters and stamps. Oil on mother-of-pearl paintings, possibly attributed to Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, silver-backed brushes and magnifying glasses with tortoise-shell handles are some of the many treasures from the Ramon N. Villegas collection. Villegas was a renowned antiquarian and scholar of all things Philippine.
“The Property of a Prima Ballerina”, the legendary Felicitas “Tita” Radaic, showcases the books and paintings accumulated over “a lifetime of dancing in the world’s capitals and a love of literature, wisdom and art.” Rare santoses, all with National Museum stamps and collected by her husband, art historian and intellectual Ante Radaic from across the islands are also featured. Several tomes of Rizaliana are also available.
The collection of an Old Malabon family, the Dionisios, consists of collectible furniture including an outstanding 3-drawer Sheraton.
León Exchange continues its celebration with “L’Art de Vivre (The Art of Living Well)” on Day 2, July 28th. A range of furniture, chandeliers and lamps, silverware, crystal and china grace the “Heiresses’ Homes and Tables” section. Names recognizable to top interior designers include Eames and Fortuny as well as Baker and Ralph Lauren. Exquisite lacquered accent pieces, tortoise-shall side tables, and Edo-period gold-leafed screens are also presented.
On both days, a section called “Found Objects” covers lithographs and prints, marvelous contemporary works and artist toys, mid-century modern finds as well as wardrobes, tables and chairs from all the eras.
One can indulge one’s tastes for the exquisite at all price points at the upcoming online auction, says Jaime Ponce de Leon, “and all that from one’s armchair or boudoir. The online auction gives clients the convenience of bidding through their mobiles or laptops, without having to trek all the way to where physical auctions happen.” This convenience makes online auctions for smaller-value — but no less enchanting — lots trending,” he said.
It’s as simple as going to www.leonexchange.com and registering as a buyer. Previews for the superb lots begin on Wednesday, July 18, 2018.
