ISSUE 91 APRIL – MAY 2021
LEONARD
APRIL
Virtual Luxury Monday 12 April, 6pm / MELBOURNE The Collector's Auction Monday 19 April, 6pm / SYDNEY Important Jewels Tuesday 20 April, 6pm / SYDNEY 20th Century Modern Handmade Designer Rugs
MAY
Thursday 22 April, 2pm / MELBOURNE The Estate of Graham Joel Sunday 16 May, 2pm / MELBOURNE Decorative Arts Monday 24 May, 6pm / MELBOURNE Asian Works of Art Monday 24 May, 6pm / MELBOURNE
JUNE
auction calendar —
Fine Jewels & Timepieces Monday 7 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE Fine Art Tuesday 8 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE Centum Monday 28 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE The Auction Salon Furniture & Interiors – 10am Jewellery – 10.30am Art – 11am Objects & Collectables – 11.30am MELBOURNE
LEFT: An Impressive Pair Of
COVER: Ballon Blanc De Cartier
Platinum, Rose Gold, Emerald, Argyle Fancy Pink Diamond And Diamond Pendant Earrings $75,000-95,000
Wristwatch $100,000-130,000
Important Jewels Auction Tuesday 20 April, Sydney
18ct White Gold And Diamond Bracelet $14,000-18,000 Important Jewels Auction Tuesday 20 April, Sydney
welcome —
This Issue FROM THE DIRECTOR 3 Collectors Still Gather AUCTIONS 4 Private Collections: The Estate of Graham Joel 6 Important Jewels: Diamond: The Birthstone of April 8 Fine Jewels & Timepieces: Collectable 19th Century Australian Jewellery
Welcome to the 91st issue of Leonard.
10 Decorative Arts: Chinoiserie: Europe’s Fascination with Eastern Culture and Design
Within this issue, we welcome Ronan Sulich, Leonard Joel's new Senior Adviser in Sydney, explore paintings from The Estate of Graham Joel, discover how the concept of birthstones began, and learn about Chinoiserie, a craze that swept Europe from the 17th Century.
12 Asian Works of Art: Chinese Symbolism In Jade
We also uncover Chinese symbolism in jade, discover the history of Australian jewellery, look back at Pierre Cardin's monumental legacy, and chat to women's tailor and Leonard Joel collector Emily Nolan about her inspirations, style, and collecting philosophy.
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We hope you enjoy.
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Pieces From The Gwenneth Haines Collection 14 Sydney: Welcoming Ronan Sulich 16 Modern Design: Pierre Cardin, A Legacy Of Everything 1922 – 2020 18 Luxury: Big in China 19 Prints & Multiples: The Art of Collecting Prints 20 The Collector's Auction: April Highlights
IN FOCUS 21 5 Minutes with Nick Bastiras 22 In Conversation: With Emily Nolan 24 Valuations: Trusted Settlement Services for more than a Century 25 22nd Report: Shining a spotlight on the world’s most trafficked animal
JOIN US 28 Connect & Buy with Leonard Joel 29 Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist
leonardjoel.com.au | 1
— PROFILE —
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— FROM THE DIRECTOR —
COLLECTORS STILL GATHER Welcoming you to our next suite of auctions
Several years ago in Hong Kong I was hitching a ride on one of their fantastically long subway escalators when I noticed a series of beautiful advertising light boxes. What captivated me was the byline “Collectors Gather Here”. Simple and poetic is why it engaged me and I started thinking about that line again, and regularly, during our various lockdowns and our requirements to either restrict or eliminate gatherings altogether. Now we seem to be gathering again but the makeup of that activity is more varied and interesting; it now seems to me to be a more nuanced mix of specific physical visits, more email, more phone calls and now a completely normalised use of FaceTime, Zoom, and everything in between. Do I ever think we’ll see big, physical crowds again at auctions of 200-300 people? I’m not sure but I do know that the physical element to our activities has an important place, not just operationally but more importantly, socially. So as we emerge from our “remote” working environments I’m looking forward to observing how our clients choose to gather with us. At the human level I hope Ronan Sulich, formerly of Christie’s and now with our Sydney office, enjoys lots of catch-ups and conversations with his decorative arts community and in Melbourne I would imagine that Patricia Kontos, formerly of Sotheby’s Melbourne, will enjoy reconnecting with jewellery and watch lovers and bringing her big personality and great sense of humour to every interaction with them. And yes, it will fascinate me to see how Hamish Sharma’s 25.02 carat Diamond ring, the most expensive ring ever to be auctioned in Australia, will be sold. Will it be to an anonymous internet bidder or someone in the saleroom? Will they have touched and tried it on their finger several times, the old-fashioned way? Or will they have made their
LEFT: THOMAS BRABAZON
AYLMER (1806-1856) Castle of Ischia, in the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius beyond oil on canvas 75cm x 120cm $6,000-8,000 The Collector's Auction Mon 19 April, Sydney ABOVE: A Spectacular Platinum
And Diamond Ring $990,000-1,200,000 Important Jewels Auction Tuesday 20 April, Sydney
assessment via extended video-calls and model shots? I’m not sure, but more likely than not, it will involve a mix of all of these elements. Because all of these elements seem to make up the way we now gather. But rest assured, when we soon have the absolute honour of celebrating at auction an aspect of Graham Joel’s art collection and Leonard Joel’s, Graham’s father, antique seal collection, we will indeed, and yes with all the caveats we are now familiar with, create a special physical gathering, because I knew Graham Joel well enough to know that he wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. JOHN ALBRECHT
Managing Director / National Head of Collections leonardjoel.com.au | 3
— AUCTIONS —
THE ESTATE OF GRAHAM JOEL Ethel Carrick Fox and Emanuel Phillips Fox: A Historic Partnership
Emanuel Phillips Fox and Ethel Carrick Fox remain two of Australia’s most revered Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters. Separately, their careers followed different paths each with varying success, but together they formed a partnership that has remained unmatched in the course of Australian art. Emanuel Phillips Fox was born in 1865 in Melbourne. Following his studies at the National Gallery School alongside Rupert Bunny and Frederick McCubbin, he departed for Europe in search of artistic inspiration and further studies. After attending the Académie Julian in Paris, he travelled throughout France, England and even Spain. This exposure to the European art scene became a rite of passage for Australian artists following Emanuel. Upon returning to Australia in 1892, Emanuel now enjoyed a notable level of public recognition as an artist, although largely constricted to the output of portraits. Emanuel was commissioned by the National Gallery to paint the landing of Captain Cook at Botany Bay. The bequest outlined that this must take place overseas, and so in 1901 Emanuel once more set off for Europe. After a period in Paris, Emanuel visited the open-air painting colony in St Ives, Cornwall, which is where it is believed he met his future wife, Ethel.
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— AUCTIONS —
Born in England in 1872, Ethel Carrick Fox studied at
Mark's square is one of his less contained works. From
the famous Slade Art School in London where she was
these joint trips, we often see the two artist’s rendering
encouraged to explore en plein air painting and the use
their own impressions of the same scene around them.
Graham Joel
Much to Ethel’s dismay, the couple returned to
MELBOURNE
of bright colours. Ethel was fascinated with the works of the Impressionist painters such as Monet and Pissarro. By the time she met Fox in Cornwall, perhaps as early as 1901, Ethel had successfully avoided the lures of marriage and motherhood. Fox was the husband she needed – a man just as devoted to his work as she was to hers, as opposed to the fulfillment of society’s familial expectations.
Melbourne. World War I prevented their return to Europe, and so Australia now became home. Sadly, their marriage was short-lived with Emanuel succumbing to cancer at the age of 50. Carrick became the perfect artist’s widow, campaigning persistently on behalf of Emanuel’s reputation organising countless posthumous exhibitions of his work. Emanuel Phillips Fox may now be considered
Following their marriage in 1905, the couple settled in
a highly recognised artist in Australian art history
Paris, the centre of the art world. New ideas were born
however at the time of his death he was only recognised
here and Ethel revelled in them, while Emanuel remained
in Europe and it was largely due to the efforts of Ethel
somewhat more contained. In Paris, Fox showed at the
Carrick that he found a place in Australian art history at
New Salon, while Carrick showed at the more radical
all.
Autumn Salon. Carrick was certainly the more daring of the two in both personality and artistic focus. She abandoned Impressionism in favour of the experimental colour and bold brushwork of what we now consider PostImpressionism. In Carrick’s scenes, colour takes on its own distinct identity, creating a vivid pattern. Fox, by contrast, was a master of light and shadow – the result of his academic training. Ethel and Emanuel travelled together,
While the focus for much of their partnership remained on Emanuel’s work, both artists are now considered each to be masters in their field. Separately, they would have undoubtedly remained as very talented painters but together their partnership saw their work extend to even greater heights with a now enduring legacy in Australian art history.
and it is on these trips that we often see Emanuel’s more
Leonard Joel is honoured to present a very special
experimental works. In 1907 Ethel produced a master
selection of paintings by both Ethel Carrick Fox and
work of St. Mark's Square in Venice, sold at Leonard Joel
Emanuel Phillips Fox in May, from the Estate of Graham
in 2015, also depicted by Emanuel in the same year.
Joel.
However, alongside his wife, Emanuel's rendering of St
The Estate of Sun 16 May, 2pm
OPPOSITE TOP:
EMANUEL PHILLIPS FOX (1865-1915) (Gathering Hay) oil on panel 34 x 26cm PROVENANCE: The Estate of Graham Joel OPPOSITE BOTTOM:
EMANUEL PHILLIPS FOX (18651915) (Through the Trees) oil on panel double-sided 13 x 20.5cm PROVENANCE: The Estate of Graham Joel ABOVE: ETHEL CARRICK-FOX
(1872-1952) St Mark's Square, Venice 1907 oil on panel 26 x 35cm Sold for $66,000
OLIVIA FULLER / Head of Art
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— AUCTIONS —
IMPORTANT JEWELS Diamond: The Birthstone of April
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— AUCTIONS —
Sparkling with unmatched brilliance and internal fire Long before the inception of the zodiac and lunar
they were rapidly becoming fashionable accessories for
Important Jewels Auction
calendar, gemstones held a special place in the
the elite. To cater to the rising demand, stone cutting
Tues 20 Apr, 6pm
human psyche for their perceived magical powers and
factories sprung up in Venice, eventually leading to the
SYDNEY
channelling of cosmic energy fields for wellness. Of all
first guild of diamond cutters being established in 1375 in
the gemstones, however, the esteemed diamond remains
Nuremberg, Germany. Called the Diamantaire, the guild
OPPOSITE LEFT: 18ct White Gold
at the pinnacle of those most coveted for its enduring
is credited with developing the “Point Cut” in the latter
And Diamond Eternity Ring $18,000-24,000
beauty, intrinsic powers, and intoxicating history.
half of the 14th Century. This cut follows the natural shape
OPPOSITE RIGHT:
A Spectacular Platinum And Diamond Ring $990,000-1,200,000 BELOW: Elizabeth Taylor wearing
her 33 carat diamond ring, May 1968
Diamonds were cherished long before they became the birthstone of April. It is unclear how and when in
of an octahedral rough diamond crystal, eliminating waste during the cutting process.
history specific months became linked with the various
The term diamond comes from Greek adamas, meaning
gemstones, although it is posited in the Judeo-Christian
“invincible,” or “unbreakable”. This quality is perhaps
tradition that the concept harks back to biblical times.
one of the reasons why diamonds have long been
While the prophet Aaron (1396-1273 BCE) was first
associated with power and resilience. Wearing the
recorded to have decorated his breastplate with 12
diamond is believed to enhance one’s personal power
assorted coloured gems, the tradition gained popular
and courage while inspiring innovativeness, imagination,
momentum with the introduction of astronomy and the
and creativity to one’s endeavours. It is also believed to
zodiac in 4th Century BCE. Initially, people wore all twelve
help increase wealth and abundance in life, whilst helping
stones, rotating them by the month of the year to derive
one to overcome obstacles.
the greatest energy from each stone. However, as the belief gradually took hold that various gems held magical powers for individuals born in a given month, people started to exclusively wear their assigned birthstone as a talisman. Buddhists and Hindus on the other hand, following astrological charts, pivoted towards gemstones related to celestial planets to harness beneficial cosmic energy. Sparkling with an unmatched brilliance and internal fire all its own, the diamond is by far the world’s most sought-after and cherished gemstone. Billions of years in the making, diamonds represent one of nature’s most wondrous and precious gifts. After being formed in the earth under immense pressure and heat, precise cutting and polishing brings out their incomparable beauty. Apart from colourless, diamonds are found in a wide
The wearing of diamonds is purported to bring other benefits too, such as balance and clarity. Also the symbol of eternal love, it is believed to instil fidelity in relationships; hence the exchange of diamond rings during marriages. The first diamond engagement ring on record was given by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy, in 1477. Today, the diamond engagement ring has become a near-universal symbol of love and marriage. Notable diamonds in modern history have included Elizabeth Taylor’s 33-carat diamond from Richard Burton, Kim Kardashian West’s 15-carat diamond from Kanye, and Olivia Wilde’s brilliant emerald-cut diamond from Jason Sudeikis - there is ring inspiration galore in the dazzling gems sported by stars.
range of colours including black, blue, green, pink, red,
Featured in our upcoming Important Jewels auction is
purple, orange, and yellow. Fancy coloured diamonds are
a magnificent 25.02 diamond cut from a 47.961-carat
celebrated by connoisseurs for their rarity and intriguing
rough. Mined in the Canadian Tundra, it was discovered
range of colours.
in the Gahcho Kué Diamond Mine in Kennady Lake,
The first diamonds were discovered in alluvial deposits along the banks of the River Krishna in Golconda, in South India. Recent archaeological excavations in Yemen have revealed evidence of trade in Indian diamond drilled beads going back to 1200 BC. By the 13th Century, a robust trade in diamonds within Europe was underway;
Northwest Territories. Cut to exacting specifications, the diamond is defined by its exceptional life, brilliance, and fire. Unparalleled on the market, this exquisite diamond presents a rare opportunity to acquire an incomparable and iconic symbol of the unrivalled birthstone. HAMISH SHARMA / Head of Important Jewels leonardjoel.com.au | 7
— AUCTIONS —
FINE JEWELS & TIMEPIECES Collectable 19th Century Australian Jewellery
The discovery of gold deposits in Australia brought about significant economic, political, and social changes that were reflected in the decorative arts of the period. Perhaps more than any other medium, jewellery reflected the considerable societal changes taking place. Gold was discovered in Victoria in 1851, bringing about a wave of immigration with almost 300,000 men and 200,000 women arriving to the colony during 1850s. Quickly becoming one of the wealthiest cities in the world, Melbourne had a growing market for luxury items. As a universal form of personal adornment, jewellery was a popular expression of this newly acquired wealth. Amongst the immigrants rushing to Australia were accomplished jewellers and goldsmiths, many of whom had trained and practiced in Europe. In early jewellery pieces we see a European influence combined with uniquely Australian motifs, resulting in a distinctive style that made use of an abundance of gold. The mid to late 1850s saw increased interest in the flora and fauna of the antipodes. Animals such as the kangaroo, emu, kookaburra, and cockatoo were featured, as were native plants such as the banksia, palm, native pear and fern. With import costs still high, local gemstones were also incorporated into designs, including opals, operculum shell, malachite, amethyst, citrine, agate and quandong seeds. Many beautifully crafted pieces were sent to England for exhibition as a celebration of colonial success.
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LEFT: An Important Antique
Australian Gold Buckle Brooch, Circa 1870 Sold For $7,500 BELOW: An Australian Gold Brooch
Sold For $2,750
— AUCTIONS —
Next Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction Mon 7 June, 6pm MELBOURNE TOP LEFT: A Pair Of Antique
Australian Garnet Earrings By Lamborn & Wagner, 1870 Sold For $4,250 BOTTOM LEFT: An Australian
Antique Gold Miners Brooch By W.J.Kain Sold For $4,250
With the goldrush in full swing, various jewellers began incorporating mining and manual labor motifs into their designs. Buckets, picks, shovels, cradles, mattocks and even miniature miners all began to feature, as did gold nuggets. Sometimes stylized as a simple crossed shovel and pick, at other times elaborate and detailed scenes within foliate borders, these pieces were crafted from local gold and gifted to sweethearts as a celebration of digger prosperity. Identification of jewellery from this early period can prove challenging as pieces are rarely marked with manufacturer stamps. By the 1880s, the Manufacturing Jewellers Association of Victoria was formed, and members began to adopt regulatory marks. Standardized marks were included to denote gold purity; a pick and shovel for 9ct gold, a fleece for 15ct gold, and a ship for 18ct gold. Notable and collectable Melbourne based jewellers at this time included Aronson, Duggin, Lamborn & Wagner, and Willis amongst many others. Whilst Australian jewellery has been a popular collecting category for many years, items in excellent condition or by notable manufacturers tend to be most highly sought after, achieving excellent results at auction. BETHANY MCGOUGAN / Head of Fine Jewels
& Timepieces
9ct
15ct
18ct
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— AUCTIONS —
DECORATIVE ARTS Chinoiserie: Europe’s Fascination with Eastern Culture and Design
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— AUCTIONS —
The “exotic” has inspired western design and style for
Although many Royals and wealthy European families
centuries, with writers, designers and artists drawing
had the means to import goods directly from China, the
from Eastern cultures to create their own interpretations
middle-class masses opted instead for locally crafted
and imitations of the motifs and designs they admired.
versions, like lesser quality porcelain and lacquer. It is
This European practice is known broadly as Orientalism
these examples that are known as Chinoiserie; although
and Chinoiserie, and original pieces are covetable and
translating to ‘Chinese’ in French, the pieces were
valuable to this day.
not made in China but rather, were fanciful western
Limited travel to foreign lands and the opening of trade
interpretations of Chinese motifs and culture.
routes to China in the 17th – 19th Centuries led to a
Lacquer was a special Eastern technique that Europeans
fascination with oriental design in Europe. The passion for
fell in love with. Their interpretations comprised of items
the Chinese aesthetic began with porcelain and tea, then
decorated with pagodas and garden pavilion scenes
progressed swiftly to textiles, art, and furniture. There
rendered in lush bold lacquers, commonly in green, black
was a desire for novelty and to move away from familiar
or red. These designs were applied most commonly to
and traditional European forms, and so the discovery
furniture, screens, watches, clocks, and mirrors. Most
of Chinese culture excited and inspired creatives across
of these pieces were crafted in the late 17th Century,
the continent. Europeans were intoxicated by Eastern
though they were produced well into the 19th Century,
architectural designs, artistic techniques, and general
and then following a short break, were revived again in
lifestyles, from tea drinking to interior and garden design.
the mid-20th Century.
The craze swept over the region so completely that
Chinoiserie still plays an important role in modern interior
there was nary an important court residence that did
design, with many collectors incorporating a nod to
not feature a homage to Chinese culture. Noteworthy
Eastern influence in their homes. Although these pieces
examples include The Chinese Palace in St. Petersburg
were once in abundance, the originals are rarer, and we
commissioned by Catherine the Great in 1762, The
look forward to sharing fine examples of early Chinoiserie
Chinese Luncheon room in Buckingham Palace, The
with you on May 24th, forming a single owner component
Vieux-Laque room at Schloss Schönbrunn in Vienna,
of our seasonal Decorative Arts Auction. Presented
the Great Pagoda in the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens
within this collection are original 18th Century examples
in London, and The Porcelain Room at Charlottenburg
of lacquered furniture including a Georgian bureau of
Palace in Berlin, just to name a few.
compact proportions, a George II longcase clock, and a
Decorative Arts Auction Mon 24 May, 6pm MELBOURNE
LEFT: A Fine Chinoiserie Black Lacquered Cocktail Cabinet On Stand $8,000-12,000 ABOVE: A Chinese Style Bridge In
Pushkin, Russia
striking two door cabinet on a stand. CHIARA CURCIO / Head of Decorative Arts
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— AUCTIONS —
ASIAN WORKS OF ART Chinese Symbolism In Jade Pieces From The Gwenneth Haines Collection
In Chinese culture, plant, animal and other symbols have been used for thousands of years to represent ideas, through the qualities they represent, or through their names sounding like other auspicious words. The Gwenneth Haines Collection contains a number of beautiful Qing Dynasty jades whose sizes are small, but nevertheless are packed with propitious messages. This collection, including Chinese monochrome ceramics, will be offered within our Asian Works of Art auction on 24 May. —
A CHINESE WHITE AND RUSSET JADE FIGURE OF A DRUMMING BOY QING DYNASTY (1644-1912) $1,000-1,500 Finely carved as a laughing young boy holding a drum and striking it, with a bat hovering over his shoulder, the jade of whitish-grey hue with a russet streak. A drum or a person drumming means strength or vigour, and a playing boy is a wish for a son. The word bat in Mandarin is fu, which has the same sound as the word for fortune or happiness. This jade therefore represents a wish for a strong and fortunate son.
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— AUCTIONS —
A CHINESE PALE CELADON JADE BIRD FEEDER QING DYNASTY (1644-1912) $1,000-1,500 Carved in the shape of a ruyi symbol, the underside delicately carved in low relief with a scene of a paradise
Asian Works of Art Auction Mon 24 May, 6pm MELBOURNE
flycatcher perched on a branch of blossoming plum, the jade of even pale-celadon hue. The paradise flycatcher is a beautiful bird, however its symbolism comes from its name in Mandarin, shoudainiao. The word shou means longevity, and dai is a verb meaning “to bring along”, so its message is to bring long life. Plum also has multiple meanings, but here it probably is the very beginning of Spring. Ruyi literally translates to “as you wish”. Therefore, this jade represents a wish that Spring brings new vigour and long life, and would probably be used or given as a gift in Springtime.
A CHINESE PALE CELADON JADE FIGURE OF A GOOSE WITH LOTUS QING DYNASTY (1644-1912) $2,000-3,000 Beautifully carved as a swimming goose holding a full lotus bloom and two leaves in its mouth, the jade of even pale-celadon colour. Geese were seen to mate for life, and so the goose symbolises marital fidelity. The lotus has many meanings including purity and many offspring (due to its seeds). It also means “continuous”, through word sound similarities. So, this beautiful jade represents a wish for continuous marital fidelity.
A CHINESE WHITE JADE FIGURE OF A MOTHER AND BABY SHEEP MING (1368-1644) OR QING DYNASTY (1644-1912) $1,500-2,500 Carved as a seated mother goat with baby, both carrying a lingzhi fungus in their mouths, within which is carved a taijitu symbol, the jade of greyish-white colour with some delicate striations. The word for sheep is yang, which carries the same meaning as the word xiang, or auspiciousness. A mother and baby sheep also represents filial piety (the most important virtue in Chinese culture), as the baby was understood to always kneel in gratitude when feeding from the mother. Lingzhi represents longevity, while the Taoist taijitu symbol (yin-yang) means the ultimate reality, synonymous with immortality. This jade likely represents a wish for eternal filial piety and auspiciousness, or filial piety leading to immortality. CARL WANTRUP / Asian Art Specialist
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— AUCTIONS —
SYDNEY Welcoming Ronan Sulich We are thrilled to welcome Ronan Sulich to the Leonard Joel team as Senior Adviser. Based in our Sydney saleroom, Ronan will assist in the curation and presentation of our Important Collections as well as our popular Collector’s Auctions. We sit down with the highly credentialed specialist and auctioneer to find out more about his background, discover how his love of collecting began, and learn what advice he has for those just beginning their collections. —
The Collector's Auction Mon 19 Apr, 6pm SYDNEY
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background in
What sort of pieces are you looking for as you consign
auctions.
for upcoming auctions at Leonard Joel?
Ever since I was a child, I have been interested in art,
There is a growing appreciation of good, classic Georgian
furniture and lives of the past. After a short stint working
furniture. The younger generation are looking at it less
in a historic house museum then moving to London, I
as “brown furniture” as favoured by their parents, but an
Centre Table $3,000-5,000
landed a job at an auction house that held weekly sales,
antidote to the cheap and ultimately worthless furniture
which was an amazing education. After five years of
from Ikea.
OPPOSITE: Ronan Sulich,
London gloom, Australia lured me back with a job at
Senior Adviser, Sydney
Christie’s first as the Sydney decorative arts expert then
BELOW: A George IV Rosewood
as the Australian representative. Has there been an especially memorable collection or piece that has passed through your hands? The Picasso donated to the University of Sydney which was sold by Christie’s in London was especially memorable, as well as all the wonderful collection sales
What advice would you give to those new to the world of collecting? Talk to other collectors, talk to the auction house specialists, and read and learn as much as you can about your areas of interest. Think of it as a long-term passion, not a passing fad. What was your most recent auction purchase?
held over the years such as the Whiteman Collection, the
The dangers of watching The Crown and online bidding!
Bronte House sale, and the Schaeffer Collection at Rona.
I bought two 18th Century drawings that were a wedding
Do you have a favourite museum to visit? My spiritual home is the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, but the most wonderful place that I always recommend people to visit in London is Sir John Soane’s
present to Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon from the sale of his estate at Christie’s London. They will add to the Soane effect at home! RONAN SULICH, Senior Adviser, Sydney
museum in Lincoln’s Inn Fields. It is a visual and spatial feast that always amazes and inspires me: maximalism at its finest!
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— AUCTIONS —
MODERN DESIGN Pierre Cardin, A Legacy Of Everything 1922 – 2020
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— AUCTIONS —
“I like to draw without constraint of corners, corridors, rooms or walls. Make sleeves to dresses or feet to a table, it’s the same thing” PIERRE CARDIN
Pierre Cardin died at 98 years old last year, in a time of
Cardin began fabricating his furniture designs in the
Next Modern
upheaval, confusion and complete uncertainty of what
1970s, producing different models. His ability to
Design Auction
the creative world holds for us all in the future. Though
transport people to another unique universe was his gift.
Mon 26 July, 6pm
Cardin’s career spans more than three-quarters of a
MELBOURNE
century, he remains a futurist in all forms. His initial fame began in fashion, reducing ready-to-wear consumption,
OPPOSITE: Pierre Cardin,
moving on to furniture design, and every other aspect of
November 1986
brand production.
BELOW: A chair designed by
Pierre Cardin, in the Palais Bulles
Cardin is famously known for the Palais Bulles, an architectural creation in the south of France that he worked on between 1975 and 1989. Cardin had kept the structure as a summer residence, also functioning as an informal museum for artists and contemporary designers,
It is a rare talent for one’s designs to remain
and played host to fashion shows, film festivals, previews,
contemporary some 40 years after they were released,
and many creative performances.
and Cardin’s remain as fresh as ever. The French designer is celebrated for his avant-garde, otherworldly fashion. He has been decorated with numerous accolades for his trailblazing designs and humanitarian efforts (Cardin is the only designer ever to be admitted to the prestigious French society Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris). Cardin’s furniture is another level unto itself, his futuristic light sculptures, as well as his inventive architectural, and interior works deserve a closer look. Cardin translated his ideas from fabric into wood, lacquer, metal, and glass sculptural designs. He drew inspiration from nature; his pieces mimicking skies and landscapes from countries all over the world. He loved to travel and found this an extremely important influence in his designs. “Traveling helps understand what other people do, remember the past, see different cultures, but then you must translate what you see into something totally different, never copy. I was copied a lot.”
Cardin, ahead of his time, was always influenced by geometric shapes, often rendered in fabrics like silver foil, paper and brightly coloured vinyl. These materials would shape the dominant aesthetic of his early 1960s furniture designs. Cardin’s design legacy hits every corner of the globe. He was the first fashion designer to visit NASA, and the first to see the potential of the Chinese market. With a go-getter attitude, he targeted the Japanese as well as Soviet Union markets. The sky was the limit, and he explored everything through the dense cloud of creativity. Even after his death, Cardin is still considered a trailblazer in the lucrative world of futurism, fashion and merchandise. As he told the New York Times in 1987: “I was born an artist, but I am a businessman”. The world needs to watch this space, as he certainly has not left us yet. ANNA GRASSHAM / Head of Modern Design
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— AUCTIONS —
Next Luxury Auction Tues 27 July, 6pm MELBOURNE
Luxury Chanel and Hermès, the latter only posting a value of a mere $11.90 billion in 2020. Whilst this is an extraordinary gain for all concerned, can the trend continue? To the future of Luxury sales, post-Coronavirus, all eyes have turned to China. Presently, China remains the third largest market for luxury goods behind America and Europe. Whilst world economies are faltering, it is predicted that the Chinese economy is looking up. High spending Chinese tourists - who before Covid made as much as two thirds of their purchases in cities like Paris, London, Rome, New York, and Los Angeles - are still spending their hard earned dollars but are now buying
Big in China — TOP: A Limited Edition
COVID-19-related store closures and financial
Jeff Koons Van Gogh Neverfull Bag By Louis Vuitton Sold for $5,750
uncertainty may have caused concern and anxiety for
BOTTOM: A Brand New Dionysus Bird Handbag By Gucci Sold for $3,000
brands in traditional luxury hotspots, however if this trend continues and if the Chinese economy stays buoyant, it is predicted that by 2025 Chinese consumers will account for half of the world’s luxury goods spending, keeping these multi-nationals in high demand.
most of us; however, the world’s luxury brands have been
The good news for most of us is that with the ripple
raking in big dollars. Most international luxury brands are
effect, as the market for new luxury goods grows, with its
posting significant growth as we sit at home spending
association of superior quality, prestige and exclusiveness,
our stimulus money, or is there another reason for the
the secondary market grows with it. The buying trend
upward trend?
in China will further the supply to the pre-owned luxury
On top of the list of international brands is Gucci, with an estimated value of $17.63 USD billion in 2020. In second place is the almighty Louis Vuitton, who increased its growth from $13.57 billion USD in 2019 to $16.47 billion USD in 2020. These two giants are followed by Cartier,
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their luxury goods locally. This is not good news for these
market globally and afford us the opportunity to purchase our own special pieces and continue their narrative with a new lease of life. JOHN D'AGATA / Head of Luxury
— AUCTIONS —
Next Prints & Multiples Auction Wed 28 July, 6pm MELBOURNE
Prints & Multiples The art of collecting prints: what to know — Prints and other types of editions are a great place to start for someone who is beginning their art collection, especially if you are working within a budget. Many of your favourite painters of today also work within the medium of print, making it easier to acquire something to add to your collection. The most popular forms of printmaking today are screen printing, lithography, etching and linocut printing. Each process utilises specific techniques that have been adapted by the artist, making it their own. Here are some things to know before embarking on starting your collection: What is an edition? The edition is the total number of prints that have been created by the artist. The edition number is generally written at the bottom of a print and expressed as a fraction, for example 14/50 would indicate that the print is number 14 out of an edition of 50. Smaller edition sizes tend to be more desirable. What if the print is unsigned? On occasion you may find original prints that are unsigned. It may have been missed in the printing process or gifted by the artist without signing. There are also many artists and studios that use a rubber stamp to print their signature, or have it printed within the plate. It is always good practice to ensure that the artwork is signed or bares provenance to assure you that the print is an original.
Caring for your artwork Framing your print is the most important long-term
TOP: SHEPARD FAIREY (born 1970)
Obey 3-Face Collage 2020 lithograph Sold for $1,500
decision you can make when it comes to caring for your
ABOVE: MURRAY GRIFFIN
newly acquired piece. Make sure you use a professional
Pelican linocut 8/27 Sold for $1,375
framer; in the long run it is better for you and your print to be framed using the right mount and materials. To avoid fading of bright and bold colours, do not hang your piece in direct sunlight unless it has been framed behind museum grade glass, and ensure that the artwork is kept away from moisture and damp spaces. Always ensure that the artwork is not trimmed in the framing process to accommodate a smaller frame and make sure your framer does not to glue it to the backboard. Happy collecting! HANNAH RYAN / Prints & Multiples Specialist
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— AUCTIONS —
THE COLLECTOR'S AUCTION Highlights of the April Auction
A ROMAN MARBLE PORTRAIT
THOMAS BRABAZON AYLMER (1806-1856)
HEAD OF A WOMAN
Castle of Ischia, in the Bay of Naples,
Antonine Period, circa 140 A.D.
Mount Vesuvius beyond
$30,000-50,000
oil on canvas 75cm x 120cm
A highlight of the April Collector’s Auction in Sydney is
$6,000-8,000
this Roman marble portrait head that has been consigned from the estate of Rodney Ellison. It is rare to find such
Another estate that will feature in the Collector’s Auction
a fine ancient sculpture in private hands in Australia, and
is that of Patti David, wife of grocery magnate John
with provenance dating back to 1988. Roman portraits
David, whose opulent Observatory Tower apartment was
are notable for their realism and individuality and can be
decorated by Thomas Hamel. This ravishing view of the
dated on the basis of their often elaborate coiffures.
Bay of Naples by the English artist Thomas Brabazon Aylmer (1806-1856) was purchased at auction in London by the couple in 2004.
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The Collector's Auction Mon 19 Apr, 6pm SYDNEY
— PROFILE —
Minutes with… NICK BASTIRAS
This issue, we chat to Nick Bastiras, who manages our busy Furniture department within the Auction Salon.
FAVOURITE MAKER / ARTIST
YOUR IDEAL DAY IN MELBOURNE
My favourite maker/artist would have to be George
My ideal day in Melbourne would be a lazy Sunday
Baldessin. I saw some etchings at the original Heide
out of Melbourne! My wife and I would have breakfast
Gallery a few years ago and was instantly taken. His
at CIBI in Collingwood, then go for a drive up to the
approach to the human form is so arresting. The joint
Macedon Ranges. We would check out the antique
Baldessin/Whiteley exhibition at the NGV a couple of
shops in Kyneton and Daylesford, then go for a long
years ago was also amazing. I love Whiteley’s early 60s
bush walk. We would finish up at The Theatre Royal in
abstractions.
Castlemaine for a gig and a few drinks.
FAVOURITE FURNITURE PIECE I love mid-century design and furniture. My favourite furniture pieces would have to be leather sofas and armchairs by B&B Italia. FAVOURITE COFFEE / WINE / COCKTAIL My favourite coffee is a piccolo from CIBI in Collingwood. Favourite wine would be any Pinot Noir or Côtes du Rhône. My favourite cocktail would have to be a Negroni. FAVOURITE BOOK I have just finished re-reading “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck after reading it in high school. I was reminded of how poetic his narrative is, elevating the ordinary to a thing of beauty. I also love the Author Siri Hustvedt and her novel “What I Loved”.
leonardjoel.com.au | 21
— IN CONVERSATION —
In Conversation with Emily Nolan
We visited Emily Nolan, founder of Melbourneborn women’s tailoring label E Nolan and enthusiastic Leonard Joel collector, and asked her to share what style, collecting and inspiration means to her. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your label, E Nolan? E Nolan started as a way for me to challenge the tired, restrictive, and often robotic ways we’ve been taught to think about getting dressed. I want to challenge the standardised way in which we build our wardrobes for both work and life with a new model that embraces individuality and authentic self-expression. I am striving to offer a new standard for women’s tailoring in Australia as well as a new, more intimate, more personal way of relating to the things we wear - sartorial mementos. We operate on an appointment-only basis, which allows for a luxurious one-to-one service that acts as a vehicle for my clients to creatively build a wardrobe. What led you to discover Leonard Joel? I discovered Leonard Joel when I started to dream/ research about how to best furnish the E Nolan Dressing Room. The Dressing Room is a renovated 20ft shipping container covered in jasmine amongst a garden in Hawthorn East. I wanted the space to exude personality, like you’ve stumbled upon it in a wonderland. It is my brain’s Aladdin’s Cave, and it has brought me great joy searching for pieces that will work within the space. It’s not a huge space so I have found hanging artwork a very important part of dressing it. It’s like setting a table; there must be pieces with intent, a chair to sit back in, a table surface to host cloth, and vintage tea set to encourage comfortable conversation.
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— IN CONVERSATION —
How would you describe your personal style? Day-to-day life is uncertain at the best of times. I like
Is there anything you’ve currently got an eye out for, that you would like to add to your collection?
garments I can reach for that will stabilise my restless
Right now, I am on the lookout for a rug to bring warmth
nature. I like to dress feeling ‘thrown together’ rather
to the E Nolan space and to better section off the area
than ‘put’ together; a bit of this, a bit of that. Curating a
between consulting and fitting. I am also perennially
wardrobe is like collecting for your home. I marry vintage
searching for artworks and vintage magazines to frame.
finds with my suiting and sneakers.
Do you have any advice for new collectors on finding
What inspires you, both personally and professionally?
their “signature” style?
I am inspired by different people's perspectives.
I think it helps to consider what brings you pleasure and
I love to read and to drift through others words and
making that your foundation. This can and will help you
consciousness. I find there isn't too much of a distinction
articulate your aesthetic ideals and your ‘style’. I think it
between what inspires me professionally and personally
starts with an appreciation of your five senses but most
- the two are inextricably intertwined. I am inspired by
importantly how you feel in a garment with your eyes
storytelling, kindness, and a sense of hope. I don’t think
closed. Clothing is our most intimate form of art. For me,
you can be creative without a grand sense of curiosity.
style is in the day to day, the garments that you really
Do you have a personal favourite acquisition from Leonard Joel?
room with furniture and books sourced at Leonard Joel. TOP RIGHT: Emily Nolan wearing
her white sapphire rings, stones sourced at Leonard Joel. Image by Annie Carroll
bed t-shirt, or the memory of a garment passed from their
Joel is a collection of white sapphires that were set in
it wrong', play with your clothing that same way you do
a tennis bracelet. I took them to Bella Clark Jewellery
rearranging a room until it feels functional and ‘you’.
works to recontextualise antiques, and I wear these
TOP LEFT: The E Nolan dressing
favourite item of clothing is - sometimes this could be a mother. Style is also about reducing the fear of 'getting
marries the fine art of handmade jewellery and often
Annie Carroll
live in and feel safe in. I always ask my clients what their
My favourite piece I have ever bought from Leonard
and she reset the stones into eternity rings. Bella
OPPOSITE: Emily Nolan, shot by
Visit www.enolan.com.au to find out more, and follow Emily on Instagram at @enolanmelbourne
rings every day.
leonardjoel.com.au | 23
— VALUATIONS —
Trusted settlement services for more than a century Whether you are selling a single precious object or an entire collection, at Leonard Joel we are committed to managing and celebrating your transaction with you expertly and robustly. — We can state with confidence that Leonard Joel offer
For all valuation enquiries whether it is for probate,
the most secure arrangements of any auction house
market or insurance please contact:
in Australia. Clients of Leonard Joel enjoy settlement services with a client trust account and rapid 7 day settlement for eligible collections.
24 | leonardjoel.com.au
CAROLINE TICKNER / Head of Valuations caroline.tickner@leonardjoel.com.au
22
ND REPORT
Shining a spotlight on the world’s most trafficked animal — IMAGE CREDIT: Shavez Cheema
(1StopBorneo Wildlife)
One of the most unique mammals in the world – the
Deploying well-trained and well-equipped canine units is
pangolin - has become a highly prized commodity.
not only a question of national security, but also a public
Illegally trapped, killed, and trafficked by organised
health issue as we have seen the COVID-19 pandemic
crime networks between countries and continents to feed
shine a spotlight on the perils of large-scale wildlife trade.
demand for their scales and meat.
Reducing the illegal wildlife trade will not only protect
From 2016 to 2019, an estimated 206.4 tonnes of
the species, it will help protect people as well. Pangolins
pangolin scales were intercepted and confiscated
have been identified as a likely intermediary species in
from 52 seizures. This is equivalent to about 360,000
the virus’ journey from a wild animal disease to a human
pangolins being poached according to a report by the
pandemic. Although the jury is still out on the exact path
Wildlife Justice Commission. Many of these pangolins are
of the virus, what is clear is that repeated and sustained
poached in Africa and then sent across the world to the
close contact with wild animals, likely facilitated by illegal
traditional medicine market in Asia.
and legal trade, is a huge risk factor for animal diseases
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
jumping to humans.
strategically co-operates with China’s Customs Anti-
In February 2020, China’s legislature, the National
Smuggling Bureau to promote law enforcement
People’s Congress, moved quickly to ban the trade and
exchanges and cooperation between China Customs and
consumption of wild animals. It also stepped up revisions
the customs of key countries in Southeast Asia.
of wildlife protection laws, upgrading the protection of
IFAW has supported workshops in Asia about cross-
the pangolin to a top-class protected animal.
border law enforcement to educate and raise awareness
In June 2020, it was reported that the Chinese
of pangolin trafficking. One workshop in September
government no longer includes pangolin scales on the list
2018 with China-Vietnam cross-border law enforcement
of approved raw ingredients for medicinal drugs.
resulted in three large seizures by Vietnam Customs within one month.
This news could not have come any sooner. Despite the global ban of international trade of pangolins in 2017,
In Benin, West Africa, IFAW works with the government
they continue to be trafficked at unconscionable levels.
to train wildlife crime detection dogs and their human
According to the Wildlife Justice Commission’s analysis
handlers. The mission is to teach dogs how to detect
of large-scale seizures of illegal pangolin scale shipments,
elephant ivory and pangolin scales, while teaching their
over 81 tonnes of pangolin scales were seized in 2019
handlers how to understand the dogs and guide them
which is a marked increase from about 25 tonnes in 2016.
when searching for wildlife products.
MARK HOFBERG, IFAW campaign officer
leonardjoel.com.au | 25
— PROFILE —
NOW CONSIGNING IN BRISBANE With a dedicated Queensland Representative Specialist on the team, Leonard Joel conducts regular Valuation Days and private appointments in Brisbane. Please refer to our website for further information, join us at an upcoming Valuation Day, or contact Troy McKenzie at the details below to arrange an appointment. ENQUIRIES BRISBANE | Troy McKenzie, Queensland Representative Specialist 0412 997 080 | troy.mckenzie@leonardjoel.com.au
NOW DELIVERING Get your auction purchases delivered straight to your door with Leonard Home Delivery, our convenient, fast, reliable delivery service managed by our in-house team. Please visit our website for more information, or contact delivery@leonardjoel.com.au Please note this service is available for selected Melbourne suburbs and is not available for Sydney auction purchases. Please contact us for all non-listed suburbs, including interstate. 26 | leonardjoel.com.au
— PROFILE —
Samraing Chea A Semi-trailer Truck with a Tanker Acehieved the Small Town to the Gas Station 2019, greylead pencil, pencil on paper, 17.5 � 25 cm, Courtesy of the artist and Arts Project Australia, Melbourne
leonardjoel.com.au | 27
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With regular auctions in Fine Art, Jewels & Watches, Decorative Arts, Modern Design, Luxury and more, there’s something to suit every taste and budget at Leonard Joel.
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28 | leonardjoel.com.au
Contact a Leonard Joel team member or stop by a saleroom if you have any questions.
— JOIN US —
Value / Sell / Buy Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist MANAGING DIRECTOR & PROPRIETOR John Albrecht 03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au
Auction Specialists — PRIVATE COLLECTIONS John Albrecht, Head of Department 03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au IMPORTANT JEWELS Hamish Sharma, Head of Department, Sydney 02 9362 9045 | hamish.sharma@leonardjoel.com.au FINE JEWELS & TIMEPIECES Bethany McGougan, Head of Department 03 8825 5618 | bethany.mcgougan@leonardjoel.com.au FINE ART Olivia Fuller, Head of Department 03 8825 5624 | olivia.fuller@leonardjoel.com.au DECORATIVE ARTS Chiara Curcio, Head of Department 03 8825 5635 | chiara.curcio@leonardjoel.com.au MODERN DESIGN Anna Grassham, Head of Department 03 8825 5637 | anna.grassham@leonardjoel.com.au LUXURY John D'Agata 03 8825 5605 | john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au PRINTS & MULTIPLES Hannah Ryan 03 8825 5630 | hannah.ryan@leonardjoel.com.au SYDNEY Ronan Sulich, Senior Adviser 02 9362 9045 | ronan.sulich@leonardjoel.com.au Madeleine Norton, Decorative Arts and Fine Art Specialist 02 9362 9045 | madeleine.norton@leonardjoel.com.au QUEENSLAND REPRESENTATIVE SPECIALIST Troy McKenzie 0412 997 080 | troy.mckenzie@leonardjoel.com.au
The Auction Salon Specialists — ART Hannah Ryan 03 8825 5630 | hannah.ryan@leonardjoel.com.au FURNITURE Nick Bastiras 03 8825 5640 | furniture@leonardjoel.com.au JEWELLERY Bethany McGougan 03 8825 5645 | bethany.mcgougan@leonardjoel.com.au OBJECTS & COLLECTABLES Rebecca Stormont 03 8825 5655 | objects.manager@leonardjoel.com.au
Valuations — Caroline Tickner, Head of Department 03 8825 5638 | caroline.tickner@leonardjoel.com.au
Marketing & Communications — Blanka Nemeth, Head of Department 03 8825 5620 | blanka.nemeth@leonardjoel.com.au Maria Rossi, Graphic Artist Adam Obradovic, Photographer Henry Murphy, Photographer
Sale Rooms — MELBOURNE 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne VIC 3141 Telephone: 03 9826 4333 SYDNEY The Bond, 36–40 Queen Street, Woollahra, Sydney NSW 2025 Telephone: 02 9362 9045
For Leonard Magazine enquiries, please contact Blanka Nemeth: blanka.nemeth@leonardjoel.com.au
An Impressive Platinum, 18ct Gold, Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond And Diamond Ring $240,000–300,000 Important Jewels Auction Tuesday 20 April, Sydney
This document has been produced to international environmental management standard ISO14001 by a certified green printing company.
— PROFILE —
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