Art enthusiasts and collectors rejoice! Leon Gallery opens its online doors for the 31st edition of the Leon Exchange Online Auction, happening on April 20 and 21, starting at 11 a.m.
This landmark sale features the esteemed collections of cultural icons and trailblazers. Paintings, sketches, religious artifacts, and more take center stage, showcasing the enduring influence of art across generations.
This auction is a treasure trove of works by iconic Filipino modernist artists. A champion of the movement, Purita Kalaw-Ledesma, plays a prominent role. Her unwavering belief in modernism led her to patronize and befriend many modernist masters. The sale features not only paintings from her collection, but also religious artifacts, some of which are undeniable highlights.
The collection of the "Dean of Philippine Fashion" Ramon Valera also graces this event. Valera, the first Filipino to receive the National Artist Award for Fashion Design, transformed the traditional baro't saya into the now-iconic terno. An art lover himself, Valera was a prolific collector. Be on the lookout for his collection of Oriental furniture and Persian carpets.
Distinguished tastes on sisplay
Other prominent collectors are also featured. Don Eugenio "Geny" Lopez, from a family steeped in patronage of the arts, offers a collection that includes a charcoal nude by Cesar Legaspi, a 1968 New York City study by Jose Joya, and an oil-on-paper by Romeo Tabuena. A 19th century leather panel sreen is another anticipated lot.
Dr. Victor Reyes's collection offers a glimpse into his refined taste, featuring works from Manuel Baldemor, Ibarra dela Rosa, and Cesar Legaspi. The wardrobe from the Lily Leung collection, on the other hand, immortlizes the legendary "First Lady of Hong Kong Television."
Landscape and Landscape #3 by Dominador Castaneda, from the collection of legal luminary Don J. Antonio Araneta, are also up for grabs.
The auction boasts a selection of early works by lauded Filipino modernists. These include Florencio B. Concepcion's 1960 depiction of Inang Bayan, Angelito Antonio's Mananahi, and one of the earliest oil paintings by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera.
H.R. Ocampo's Abstraction 60, a prime example of his "Visual Melody Period" (1968-1978), is a must-have for collectors. This vibrant piece exemplifies the harmonious connection between its elements and the audience.
Nena Saguil and more
Highly sought-after works by Nena Saguil, the first Filipina abstract artist, are also offered. Drawing inspiration from nature, Saguil's timeless abstractions are sure to be a highlight.
Beyond the art, the auction boasts fine jewelry collections, luxury watches including a Patek Philippe Calatrava and an Audemars Piguet Millenary, elegant silverware, well-preserved religious artifacts, finely-crafted furniture, and elegant tableware.
Leon Gallery invites everyone to participate in the 31st Leon Exchange Online Auction, happening on April 20 and 21. Browse the online catalog at https://leon-gallery.com/. Bidding starts at 11 a.m. and will be conducted online at https://leonexchange.com/.