ISSUE 92 JUNE – JULY 2021
LEONARD
JUNE
Fine Jewels & Timepieces Monday 7 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE Fine Art Tuesday 8 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE A Connoisseur's Collection, East Melbourne Sunday 20 June, 12pm / MELBOURNE Scandinavian Design Tuesday 22 June, 2pm / MELBOURNE The Collector's Auction Tuesday 22 June, 6pm / SYDNEY Centum Monday 28 June, 6pm / MELBOURNE
JULY
auction calendar —
Modern Design Monday 26 July, 6pm / MELBOURNE Luxury Tuesday 27 July, 6pm / MELBOURNE Prints & Multiples Wednesday 28 July, 6pm / MELBOURNE The Auction Salon Furniture & Interiors – 10am Jewellery – 10.30am Art – 11am Objects & Collectables – 11.30am MELBOURNE
LEFT: An Antique 15ct Gold
COVER: MATTHEW QUICK (born 1967)
and Silver Diamond Brooch $18,000-22,000
Pure Greed (detail) oil on linen, 100 x 100cm $5,000-7,000
Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction Monday 7 June, Melbourne
Centum Auction Monday 28 June, Melbourne
welcome —
This Issue FROM THE DIRECTOR 3 Is it the Right Time to Sell? AUCTIONS 4 Private Collections: A Connoisseur’s Collection 8 Important Jewels: Elsa Peretti: The Jewels of Humanity 10 Fine Jewels & Timepieces: History Revived: The Craftsmanship of Eugène Fontenay
Welcome to the 92nd issue of Leonard. Step inside 16 Berry Street, East Melbourne to discover the collection of a local connoisseur, explore the powerful jewellery designs of Elsa Peretti and Eugène Fontenay, and marvel at three photorealist paintings in Centum, our forthcoming contemporary art auction. Within this issue we also unravel the mystery of two striking commodes, delve into the life and work of French designer Jean Prouvé, and chat to pianist, composer, natural history enthusiast, and internationally renowned shell collector Jason Earle-Sprague. We hope you enjoy.
12 Welcoming Patricia Kontos 14 Centum: The Devil is in the Detail – Photorealism in Contemporary Australian Art 16 Modern Design: Jean Prouvé: Master of Modernist Metals 18 Luxury: 10 Years of Luxury at Leonard Joel 19 Prints & Multiples: Exploring Methods Of Printmaking 20 The Collector's Auction: A Tale of Two Commodes – IN FOCUS 22 In Conversation: With Jason Earle-Sprague 24 A Last Look 26 5 Minutes with Indigo Keane 27 22nd Report: We Must Work Together to Prevent Future Pandemics 28 Valuations: Trusted Settlement Services for more than a Century – JOIN US 32 Connect & Buy with Leonard Joel 33 Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist
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— PROFILE —
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— FROM THE DIRECTOR —
IS IT THE RIGHT TIME TO SELL? Shifting back to the tangible
At present, I would have a handful of clients wondering whether now is a good time to sell? The question is not an uncommon one, most pronounced after a significant and impactful event on either a national or international scale or, simply, with reference to a period in the calendar. Prior to this global pandemic, I recall the question came up often after the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-2009 and still regularly presents as an “is December too late to sell?” or, "is January too early to sell?” question. The calendar query persists and will be one of those questions that I imagine an auctioneer will hear, and answer, forever. However, the event question has taken on a whole new meaning since the emergence of COVID-19. In March and April of last year, when I was asked this question, I simply couldn’t answer it and sympathetically watched several collections, destined for auction, fade back in to the arms of collectors who were simply (and rightly so) too nervous to sell. Fast forward a year, and I almost have to pinch myself when I reflect on what I am now advising clients and that is that now, in my opinion, is probably the best time to sell since the period prior to the stock market crash of October 1987 and arguably the best time to sell in perhaps a century. And what have we observed at Leonard Joel to support this claim? Well, two profound things really. To begin with, and like so many auction houses globally, we have witnessed the dramatic (and comfortable) shift of existing buyers, (and more of them than ever before) online. Prompted by lockdowns when the only means of acquisition was via the internet and contactless delivery services, existing collectors and new buyers alike have moved online with a momentum that is as strong in numbers as it is in willingness to bid and buy. Then add to this the virtual elimination of international leisure travel (read this as the profound
LEFT: A Magnificent Platinum and
Diamond Ring, 25.02 Carats Sold for $1,125,000 Auction Record A Rare Pair of Platinum and Diamond Earrings Sold for $650,000
reversal in “experience-spending”) and we have, in many ways, domestically clad consumer spending, I would guess, unparalleled since before the advent of affordable, large-scale international travel. Consumption has shifted, from the rise and rise of experience spending, well and truly back to the tangible. From my view point we are once again buying “things” like never before and after 12 months of observation I am completely sold (pardon the pun) on the
Important Jewels Auction, April
reality that consumption in our Economy of Beautiful Things and Interesting People (as
ABOVE: CLEMENT MEADMORE
I like to call our auction business) is being turbo-charged by frustrated Australians that
(1929-2005) Meditation 1974 $15,000-20,000
cannot travel internationally. And what do prospective sellers have in this environment?
Fine Art Auction Tuesday 8 June, Melbourne
JOHN ALBRECHT
An opportunity that will be remembered as being short-lived and golden.
Managing Director / National Head of Collections leonardjoel.com.au | 3
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A CONNOISSEUR’S COLLECTION East Melbourne
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— AUCTIONS —
Leonard Joel is excited to present A Connoisseur’s Collection, offering at auction the contents of 16 Berry Street, East Melbourne. The beautiful three-level Victorian town house encloses a discerning collection of art, objets d’art, and fine furniture belonging to the late Cary Mansell and his partner Ray Williams.
In addition to their passion for the art of dining, Cary
Cary and Ray met in the 1980s, developing their love for
passion for Italy, particularly Venice; annual visits over
antiques, travel, and art together, refining their collection
the last decade were an exhausting itinerary of galleries,
through their various residences including Musk Farm,
churches, and palazzi, whilst at night they recovered at
which they bought from the Estate of Stuart Rattle in
their favourite hotel, the Cipriani. Imagery and statues
2014. After just three happy years there Ray fell ill,
of the lion of San Marco are seen in almost every room,
prompting a move back to East Melbourne. The house
coupled with various Venetian treasures including
in Berry Street was purchased, just a few hundred metres
beautiful Fortuny lights, a fine glass mirror and, most
from their former much-loved home in Powlett Street.
impressively, a large gondola pole lantern.
Their collection reflects a mutual love of antiques,
This fine collection is complemented by art chosen by
their eye for beauty and quality, and a love of an
Cary and Ray, ranging from 18th Century European works
“old fashioned” way of life. This extended to their
to good examples of early 20th Century Australian artists
entertaining, where Cary was master of the kitchen
including Septimus Power and Henry Hanke.
and Ray the maître d’hôtel. Berry Street is curated to entertain, with a drinks trolley near the dining table and a large astral glazed cabinet housing a sizable collection of Georg Jensen sterling silver table ware, an extensive set
and Ray both shared a love of clocks. Cary’s interest was
A Connoisseur's
possibly sparked by his great grandfather, who was a
Collection
clock maker and whose final exam piece is offered for
Sun 20 June, 12pm
sale, along with several other fine examples including
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an impressive musical clock. Being in the sitting room at Berry Street at midday (or midnight!) with four clocks chiming in unison must have been an extraordinary experience.
ABOVE & OPPOSITE: A selection
of pieces from A Connoisseur's Collection, in situ at 16 Berry Street, East Melbourne.
The Venetian items in the collection reflect a more recent
We look forward to celebrating Cary and Ray’s legacy with you on June 20th, 2021. CHIARA CURCIO / Head of Decorative Arts
of Waterford Crystal, and an iconic suite of Georg Jensen Acorn pattern flatware. Their prized dinner service was a rare set of Flora Danica porcelain.
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"Cary and Ray's collection reflects a mutual love of antiques, their eye for beauty and quality, and a love of an old fashioned way of life."
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IMPORTANT JEWELS Elsa Peretti: The Jewels of Humanity 1940 – 2021 Elsa Peretti “not only created a model for style and elegance that defined contemporary life, she changed forever the way people think about jewellery and incorporating fine taste in their lives.” WILLIAM R. CHANEY, COMPANY CHAIRMAN AT TIFFANY & CO.
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— AUCTIONS —
Next Important Jewels Auction Tues 10 Aug, 6pm SYDNEY
The Italian-born jewellery designer, Elsa Peretti, is widely
She soon became part of the glamorous crowd at Studio
recognized as one of the most important jewellers of our
54, the storied Manhattan disco that attracted celebrities
time.
like Andy Warhol, Liza Minnelli, Bianca Jagger, Cher and
Her creations are acknowledged for their rigour and design; she had a talent of reducing things to their most primal and simple forms. Her open heart motif,
ABOVE: 18ct Gold 'Diamonds
influenced by Alexander Calder’s mobiles, is lovingly
Halston. With her husky voice, androgynous appearance, and trademark large sunglasses, she cut an imposing figure on the dance floor. She is portrayed in Warhol’s diaries as a fiery character who liked a party.
by the Yard' Necklace, Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. Sold for $4,216
treasured as a metaphor for a poem on what the heart
Perhaps the most famous photo of Ms. Peretti was
contains. As Peretti once put it, “I love nature, but I try to
not one from a modeling assignment but the 1975
Elsa Peretti’s real stroke of genius was her ‘Diamonds by the Yard’ necklace, making diamonds affordable by spacing them out on a chain. The design has since been copied throughout the world.
change it a little bit, not copy it.” Inspired by the forms
morning-after shot by the celebrity photographer Helmut
found in the natural world, including snakes, scorpions,
Newton, with whom she was romantically involved at the
beans, flowers and bones, her minimalist and easily
time. She stands on an apartment terrace, a cigarette
recognisable designs informed by Modernism are highly
dangling from her mouth, wearing a variation of the
sought-after. She ignored the boundaries between fine
Playboy Bunny uniform — strapless, with long black
and costume jewellery, instead creating enduring and
gloves and a black mask.
OPPOSITE: Elsa Peretti, New York,
1970. (Photo by PL Gould/Images / Getty Images) BELOW: The perfume bottle
Elsa Peretti designed for Halston in the 1970s.
meaningful jewels in silver that the working woman could afford and enjoy.
Once she could comfortably pay the bills, Peretti turned her hand to her true passion, jewellery design. Initially she
As an acknowledgement of her achievements and in
created pieces for herself, later venturing into accessory
recognition of the inspirational nature of her life’s work,
design for others including Giorgio di Sant’ Angelo and
many of Elsa Peretti’s iconic designs feature in several
Halston, designing his highly acclaimed signature bulbous
permanent collections, including those of the British
teardrop perfume bottle.
Museum in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.
In 1974, Halston introduced her to Walter Hoving, the CEO of Tiffany & Co., leading to an enduring collaboration with Peretti as a Tiffany named designer.
Elsa Peretti was born in 1940 in Florence into a privileged
Her designs made the cover of a 1977 issue of
Italian business family. She attended schools in Italy
Newsweek, titled “Jewelry’s New Dazzle.” By 1978,
and Switzerland, ultimately studying interior design and
Peretti was well entrenched as Tiffany’s leading designer.
working for an architect in Milan. At age 21 she had a
Through the partnership with Tiffany, Elsa Peretti became
falling out with her parents over her work and lifestyle
a household name. Over decades, she went on to
choices resulting in a termination of all financial support.
design more than 30 collections and generated about
To make ends meet she moved to Barcelona to pursue a
10% of Tiffany’s turnover. In 2012, when she threatened
career in fashion modelling. Elsa soon became part of an
to withdraw her name and ideas, Tiffany paid her
artistic enclave that included surrealist artist Salvador Dalí
US$47million and signed her up for another 20 years.
before moving to New York in 1968. With her tall, elegant appearance, severe cropped hair and khaki-colored eyes, Elsa was an immediate hit as a runway model for designers including Issey Miyake, Charles James, Giorgio di Sant’ Angelo and especially Halston, who went by just one name.
In later life, Peretti’s energy and wealth were firmly fixated on the work of her charitable foundation, the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation, which supports environmental and conservation projects, human and civil rights, education, and animal welfare. HAMISH SHARMA / Head of Important Jewels leonardjoel.com.au | 9
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FINE JEWELS & TIMEPIECES History Revived: The Craftsmanship of Eugène Fontenay
Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction Mon 7 June, 6pm MELBOURNE
Why are people drawn to collections and collecting?
societal interest in classical prototypes. Ancient Egypt
Whether born out of curiosity, aesthetic appreciation or
was of particular fascination, and interest in the culture
financial investment, every collection ultimately reflects a
skyrocketed so quickly that it led to the coining of the
story which is inextricably enmeshed with each collector’s
term “Egyptomania”.
unique identity. In the world of jewellery collecting, the most personal of collecting spheres, the genesis that
OPPOSITE: An Archeological
Revival Gold and Jewelled Enamel Demi-Parure Attributed to Eugène Fontenay, Circa 1870 $40,000-60,000 BELOW: A Rare Art Nouveau
Gold, Enamel and Gem-set Pendant Brooch, Philippe Wolfers, Circa 1900 $20,000-25,000
gives rise to any captivating, enlightening, inspiring collection is most likely found in that one single, long coveted, achingly desired piece.
The strong societal interest in archeology was naturally reflected in the arts, with the arrival of the Campana Collection of ancient jewellery purchased by Napoleon III in 1860, strongly influencing jewellery trends. The period became characterised by fine granulation, filigree
Featured in the June Fine Jewels & Timepieces auction
decorations and intricate enamel detail. Much like his
is the Property of a Melbourne Collector, featuring a
contemporaries, Eugène Fontenay utilised enameling to
magnificent assembly of pieces, each with historical and
great effect.
academic significance. A plique-a-jour enamel brooch by Art Nouveau exponent Philippe Wolfers, a Persian inspired pearl, diamond, and enamel pendant by Lucien Felize, and a finely crafted naturalistic bracelet and brooch by Jules Wièse are just a few of the exceptional pieces presented.
Examples of Fontenay’s work can be found in the permanent collections of some of the most significant museums in the world including The British Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Philadelphia Art Museum. With so many of Fontenay’s works being deservingly held in museum collections, collectors and
The collection is led by an archeological revival demi-
connoisseurs continue to clamour for rare examples to
parure attributed to master 19th Century goldsmith
contribute to their personal collections.
Eugène Fontenay. Working in France in the mid to late 1800s, Fontenay was one of the most technically accomplished French goldsmiths of the period, revered for superb craftsmanship and unique enamel work. Inspired by the discoveries of Roman, Egyptian, Hellenistic and Etruscan excavations in Europe during the 18th and 19th Centuries, this suite reflects a wider
This collection, along with the entire catalogue of items included in the Fine Jewels & Timepieces auction, will be exhibited in Melbourne and Sydney, with selected pieces also viewing in Brisbane, ahead of the auction on June 7th. BETHANY MCGOUGAN / Head of Fine Jewels
& Timepieces
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— AUCTIONS —
Welcoming Patricia Kontos We are thrilled to welcome Patricia Kontos, formerly of Sotheby’s Melbourne, to Leonard Joel’s Fine Jewels & Timepieces team. Keep on reading to get to know our new Senior Specialist… — Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction Mon 7 June, 6pm
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background in
résistance of invisibly set jewels, these Parisian jewellers
auctions and jewellery.
have pushed the craft throughout the 20th Century
I have had a lifelong interest in art and design and
beyond the bounds of jewellery to produce miniature works of art.
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began in this industry after completing my arts degree at Melbourne University, majoring in Fine Art.
What is a famous piece of jewellery, from any point in
OPPOSITE: Patricia Kontos, Senior
I had no particular bent towards jewellery but upon
history, that you would have loved to handle?
Jewellery Specialist
joining Sotheby’s, there was an opportunity to grow
BELOW: THOMAS MUDGE
a neglected jewellery department. I negotiated that
Fine Gold Pair Cased, Quarter Repeating Watch Circa 1770 $5,000-8,000
Sotheby’s would pay for my gemmology diploma, but only if I passed, the pressure was on! I did pass, thankfully, and next came the course in jewellery style and work experience at Sotheby’s London. By now, I was hooked on jewellery. It’s hardly surprising as I had never before been exposed to this international level of jewellery collecting, or the magnificent jewels held in London institutions. Keep in mind, this was all pre-internet and completely new to me; it was a visual assault on the senses. I cemented my knowledge of jewellery for the next nine years through hands-on experience at Sotheby’s, but I began to feel restless and although I knew I did not want to leave this industry, I felt all that glittered was no
From Cleopatra’s diadem to a natural pearl pendant given to Marie Antoinette, or a necklace possibly belonging to Anne Frank, every piece of jewellery has a story to tell, a mood to evoke, a status to signify, or an occasion to celebrate. All of this offers an insight into the lives of the people who owned these pieces. Seeing as the Royal Family is quite topical at the moment, I would have loved to have handled the collection of Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, including the ingenious Cartier panther jewels. Alone, the pieces have inherent beauty and ingenuity, but they are also a product of a romance that led Edward VIII to abdicate the throne of Great Britain, which imbue them with a historical and very personal dimension.
longer gold in my eyes at that time. A position arose with
What advice would you give to people when it comes to
Christie’s, and I moved to take a position in the paintings
buying jewellery?
department. It was a refreshing role, though unfortunately short lived, as Christie’s pulled out of Australia. I was subsequently offered a jewellery role at Bonhams and Butterfileds in San Francisco but declined the offer to stay on as Christie's representative in Melbourne. It wasn’t long before the lure of jewellery drew me back to a role of Senior Specialist with Sotheby’s Australia, and again after nine years, the time was right to move onto a new chapter and accept a position in jewellery with the vibrant team at Leonard Joel.
The old adage of buy what you love holds true; ultimately, jewellery is so personal. Keep in mind that as tastes change, lifestyles alter, and trends appear only to vanish months later, err on the side of the well-crafted with an element of design that will go the distance. Wear what you love with confidence because jewellery really does have a transformative and intoxicating power. Jewellery will always hold a role in civilisations across time, and in some diluted way every time we buy a jewel, we invoke the power of jewellery through ages
Who is your favourite jewellery designer or maker?
past. And of course, buy at auction.
It’s a tie between Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels - toss a
PATRICIA KONTOS / Senior Jewellery Specialist
coin. Cartier’s Tutti Frutti jewels vs Van Cleef’s pièce de
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CENTUM
Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction Mon 7 June, 6pm MELBOURNE OPPOSITE: Lot 105 -
AN ARCHEOLOGICAL REVIVAL GOLD AND JEWELLED ENAMEL DEMI-PARURE ATTRIBUTED TO EUGÈNE FONTENAY, CIRCA 1870 Designed as a collar applied with gold wirework, granulation and jewelled enamel bead trailing foliate detail, set at intervals with florettes with cable link chains suspending a fringe of detachable amphorae pendants decorated with stylised papyri and palmettes embellished in polychrome enamels, gold wirework and garnulation, to a concealed clasp; and a pair of pendant earrings, en suite, mounted in 18ct gold, the centre pendant with glazed compartment to reverse, necklace circumference approximately 350mm, earring length approximately 52mm, unsigned, accompanied by a fitted case Watherston & Son, Goldsmiths, Jewelllers and Silversmiths, 12 Pall Mall, East London $40,000 - $60,000
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The Devil is in the Detail – Photorealism in Contemporary Australian Art Centum Auction
What is Photorealism?
Mon 28 June, 6pm
Photorealism is an art term and movement that describes
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art which aims to appear ‘photographic’, often with fine detail, high clarity, and a focus on realism. Originally
OPPOSITE: PETER SMETS
beginning in the 1960s, the Photorealist movement
(born 1962) View Point (detail) oil on canvas 100.5 x 151cm $18,000-24,000
involved masterful technical execution, often on a large
TOP LEFT: LAWRENCE STARKEY
largely due to new technology in cameras and digital
(born 1959) Mother and Foal - Morning Salutations oil on canvas 90 x 146cm $5,000-8,000
equipment.
TOP RIGHT: MATTHEW QUICK
(born 1967) Pure Greed oil on linen 100 x 100cm $5,000-7,000
scale, bringing together the photographic and painting mediums to reflect the post-war urban aesthetic. The early 1990s saw a renewed interest in photorealism,
which, combined with his clever and quirky titles, hold deeper meanings. In many cases he leaves us intrigued, attempting to find the root of the meaning of each work where sometimes endless stories can be surmised, blurring between photorealism, hyperrealism, and even surrealism! Peter Smets The sense of place in Peter’s paintings is nearly always ambiguous. We feel it is familiar, and yet fictional. While the individuals and objects may be sourced from the artist’s encounters and photographic documents,
The photorealist style is often favourable amongst
he brings them together with imagination and careful
contemporary art collectors. A question often asked by
consideration. Each object, shadow, and figure is
the public is, “how long did that take to make?”. The
strategically placed to complete a technically brilliant
photorealist style shows a heightened level of detail
painting.
and technical skill with a clear time dedication from the artist – something which is appreciated broadly amongst
Lawrence Starkey
collectors from a first glance. Upon second glance,
Often described as a photorealist painter, Starkey’s
however, there is even more to delight the viewer. The
subject matter of choice is clearly the horse. I can’t
devil is in the detail, and there is certainly much to
help but think back to Eadweard Muybridge’s 1878
observe in a photorealist painting if the viewer permits
photographic document of a horse galloping – not
further inspection.
only a feat for photography but a justification of the
Many contemporary practitioners here in Australia selfidentify as photorealists, or have been referred to in critical discussion as photorealist painters. Here are three such artists to watch that are featured in our Centum contemporary art auction this June: Matthew Quick
true gallop of a horse. It’s muscles and powerful stride were now truly documented, and Lawrence’s paintings bring this admiration for these majestic creatures into the 21st Century. His more recent works delve into imaginative compositions, with overlapping images and superimposed backgrounds. OLIVIA FULLER / Head of Art
Matthew’s work often features a hidden narrative. Visually, we can identify quirky objects in often surreal settings
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MODERN DESIGN Jean Prouvé: Master of Modernist Metals
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“If people understand, there’s no need to explain. If they don’t, there’s no use explaining.” JEAN PROUVÉ
Rejecting the elegant tubular steel of Le Corbusier and
This period saw the invention of many of Prouvé’s most
Modern Design Auction
Marcel Breuer’s furniture, Jean Prouvé became the first
notable furniture pieces such as the Cité set, which
Mon 26 July, 6pm
designer to adapt for domestic purposes the industrial
consisted of furniture for university students. By 1936,
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machines that folded, bent, and stamped sheet metal.
Prouvé had standard outfittings for hospitals, offices,
His career spanned more than sixty years as an architect,
and schools. He also collaborated with famous architect
designer, teacher, and craftsman, and he was particularly
Le Corbusier to design a bathroom unit, along with
well known for his role in the prefabricated housing
releasing his first standalone prefabricated structure.
OPPOSITE: Jean Prouvé Guéridon
Bas Coffee Table Image courtesy of Not Another Room
movement. Jean Prouvé was born in Paris in 1901 to painter Victor
to elaborate on the designs and create prefabricated
BELOW: Jean Prouvé Standard
Prouvé and pianist Marie Duhamel. He grew up in a
barracks for the French Army. This allowed him to
creative environment with surrounding ideals of the art
develop his signature structural system, key to his later
school L’École de Nancy, where his father was a member.
architectural designs. Prouvé pioneered new techniques
The school stressed the importance of utilizing industrial
that would permit the efficient and inexpensive
technologies in the creation of designs, as well as
construction of buildings with prefabricated components,
spreading its products to the masses, and treating art as
while retaining architectural quality and individuality.
Chair Image courtesy of Not Another Room
an industry. Prouvé went on to study at the school, and subsequently was apprenticed to both a blacksmith and a metalworking shop in Paris.
During World War II, Prouvé’s studio was commissioned
Despite his modesty as a self-proclaimed metal worker and creator of nomadic designs, Prouvé is now considered one of the most influential designers of
Prouvé gained an intimate knowledge of metals during
the 20th Century. Today, his pieces are in demand by
his training, and by the age of 22 had opened his
collectors around the world, and highly sought after at
first studio to the public, presenting his first piece of
auction. A set of his ‘semi metal chairs’ sell for a cool
furniture, La Chaise Inclinable. The reclining chair used
40,000 US dollars, the last thing Prouvé would have ever
the technique of flat steel tubes, which allowed the
envisaged when designing the cost-effective industrial
chair to be folded and stacked. Aware of the limitations
furniture.
of ornamental work and keen to embrace the modern movement, Prouvé moved on to steel and arc-welding.
ANNA GRASSHAM / Head of Modern Design
In 1931, he established the Atelier Jean Prouvé, where he began to produce light-weight metal furniture of his own design, along with highly industrialized pieces for the building industry.
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— AUCTIONS —
Luxury Auction Tues 27 July, 6pm MELBOURNE
LEFT: An Exotic Birkin 30 Handbag
By Hermès Sold for $62,500 BOTTOM: A Birkin Handbag by
Hermès, sold at Leonard Joel's first Luxury auction in 2011. Sold for $13,420
Luxury We sold our first Hermès Birkin in that auction; a 35cm in classic gold Togo leather with silver tone metal hardware, I recall. What a price! It sold for $13,250, more than retail at the time in 2011. Everyone was blown away. An orange Epsom Kelly Sellier 28 sold for $6,600 and a never to be seen again ladies diamond Kelly wristwatch by Hermès, with a special order matte Havane alligator strap, was fiercely fought over and sold for $12,000. Well, we knew on that day that a new category had been created, and there was no turning back. The auctions have changed and demand for quality designer goods has increased over the years. We are now the biggest seller of Luxury items in Australia at
10 Years of Luxury at Leonard Joel — It is hard to believe that our Luxury department is in its tenth year. A lot has changed since we first began with a large collection of designer items that were presented to us by a single vendor. The department has grown immensely since that first auction in April 2011. What a varied auction it was. We were in the experimental phase and I recall a sea of designer bags, clothing, and accessories (mainly scarves). There were, however, hero lots in the auction which set us up for the future of Luxury at Leonard Joel.
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auction. COVID brought its challenges to the auction world in 2020. As always, Leonard Joel looked to the future. In November 2020, ‘Virtual Luxury’ was created; an opportunity to offer multiple Luxury items from various locations around Europe in the one auction in Australia. It was an instant success with the lure of being able to buy a fantastic variety of luxury items otherwise not available for purchase here. Alongside Modern Design and Prints & Multiples, the other ‘Design Icons’, our auctions continue to grow. In these ten years, terrific relationships have been built with both buyer and vendor. As the secondary market for luxury goods continues to grow, we are in good stead for the years to come. JOHN D'AGATA / Head of Luxury
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Prints & Multiples Auction Wed 28 July, 6pm MELBOURNE
Prints & Multiples Exploring Methods Of Printmaking — There are many printmaking methods available to artists, and as a collector, it helps to know a little about how your piece was created. Each process uses specific printing techniques that artists make their own, depending on the desired effect. The most popular methods of printmaking today are screen printing, lithography, etching, and linocut printing. Screen printing A stencil-based technique in which the first step is to stretch and attach woven fabric tightly over a wooden frame to create a screen. Areas of the screen that are
Etching
not part of the image are blocked out with a stencil.
The plate is prepared with an acid resistant ground. The
A squeegie is then used to press ink through the unblocked areas of the screen and directly onto the paper. These prints typically feature bold and hardedged areas.
artist then draws directly onto the ground, exposing the metal. Once done, the plate is then immersed in acid and the exposed metal is ‘bitten’, producing incised lines. The plate is then removed, and ink is applied to
Lithography
the sunken lines, with the remaining ink wiped from
The desired image is applied to a grained surface
passed through a printing press with pressure to transfer
(traditionally stone, though now aluminium is most commonly used) using a grease-based medium such as ink, crayon, pencil or synthetic material. A solution
A similar variant of a woodcut print, in which a sheet
Paper is then placed against the surface and the plate is run through a press. After the print passes through the machine, the paper is removed to reveal a mirrored image to the design on the stone.
(Bird and Plant) 1953 linocut Sold for $3,000
techniques.
surface, producing water receptive and non-printing
The ink will only stick to the grease receptive image area.
ABOVE: BARBARA BRASH
the ink. This is one of the oldest and most used printing
Linocut
roller with oil-based ink can be passed over the surface.
The Strange Cloud lithograph 1/6 Sold for $687
the surface. The plate is then placed against paper and
of gum arabic and nitric acid is then applied over the areas. The aluminium surface is kept wet so that the
TOP: DEAN BOWEN
of lino is used as the relief surface. The artist carves a design into the lino surface using a V-shaped chisel with the raised areas representing the design that will be printed. The lino sheet is then inked with a roller and pressed onto paper. HANNAH RYAN / Prints & Multiples Specialist leonardjoel.com.au | 19
— AUCTIONS —
THE COLLECTOR'S AUCTION A Tale Of Two Commodes In these gender fluid times, starting off as one thing and ending up as something else is less of a headline, but the story of how this spectacular pair of commodes were part of a scandal that rocked the antique market in the late 1990s and early 2000s in a court case embroiling one of London’s top dealers, is still totally fascinating. Originally part of the contents of Schloss St Emmeram in Regensburg, Germany, an opulent palace that was one of the seats of the Princely Thurn und Taxis family, they were sold in the massive Sotheby’s auction of the collection in 1993. Between the sale date and their appearance on the market in London in the early 2000s, they underwent an “extreme makeover” that transformed them from a polite pair of Viennese cabinets to a knockout pair of “Russian” commodes à vantaux, that is, with doors hiding the three long drawers within. Richly mounted with ormolu stars and mouldings in the manner of the celebrated maker Heinrich Gambs, they were sold to a noted Australian collector for a purported six figure pounds sterling amount. Resurfacing in the Owston Collection auction in Sydney in 2010 where they were acquired by the current vendor, the Thurn und Taxis collection stamp was discovered and the mystery was unravelled. Now, they are returning to the market in our next Collector’s Auction in Sydney and not only will provide a lucky buyer with a magnificent pair of statement pieces, but also a history to provide after dinner conversation for years. RONAN SULICH / Senior Adviser, Sydney
20 | leonardjoel.com.au
— AUCTIONS —
The Collector's Auction Tue 22 June, 6pm SYDNEY
OPPOSITE: A Pair of Mahogany and
Ormolu Mounted Commodes in the Russian Style $35,000-40,000 ABOVE: St. Emmeram Castle at
Regensburg, Germany (Photos by Josef Kuchlbauer and Schweigert, Thomas / Alamy) BELOW: A Thurn und Taxis
collection stamp inside one of the commodes
leonardjoel.com.au | 21
— IN CONVERSATION —
In Conversation with Jason Earle-Sprague
We visited pianist, composer, natural history enthusiast, and internationally renowned shell collector Jason Earle-Sprague at his Melbourne home, where he spends his time when he’s not working on a musical project in London. A Leonard Joel client since our St Kilda days, Sprague also collects early Chinese ceramics, antiquarian books, fine art, and European furniture. With a wealth of knowledge and a truly fascinating, curated collection, we asked him to share with us some insights into his world.
22 | leonardjoel.com.au
— IN CONVERSATION —
How did your passion for natural history and
although, preeminent in this respect would be my large,
shells begin?
amber-glazed mei-p’ing (cherry blossom vase), from
It was via a combination of my mother’s encouragement in this direction; my kindergarten teacher, who furnished the students with natural materials instead of plastic for play; and via regular holidays at the seaside.
the Liao dynasty (907-1125). The piece was formerly in
at his Melbourne home, with the amber-glazed mei-p’ing visible in the background.
a renowned US collection, and is of exceptional quality
TOP LEFT: A selection of rare
and considerable rarity, although it is for aesthetic considerations that I would find it difficult to part with. It possesses two criteria which are the hallmarks of what
What is your most memorable purchase from
I look for in Chinese ceramics: supreme beauty in
Leonard Joel?
simplicity with regards to design, and the colour of
A nineteenth century landscape painting of a Scottish highland scene. Aesthetically, it is of great beauty, and I which is first-rate.
at auction, that you still think about?
Is there anything you are on the lookout for that
No. If I miss a piece I like at auction, I remain
you’d love to add to your collection?
philosophical. I believe that the pieces destined to be
painting, the frame, and above all, the colours. I will recognise them when we meet. How has your collecting changed over the years? Discernment is the principal factor which has altered across the years, always in an upwards direction. Specialisation has also come more into play, itself a result of discernment.
antiquarian books, and fine paintings adorn Jason's home.
yours are those which come to you. Who, or what inspires you? The greatest music of the Western canon is my greatest inspiration... for everything. Do you have a favourite place to visit in London that you have discovered from spending so much time there? My great passion for fine cuisine has provided me with several favourite places: Darroze at The Connaught, J. Sheekey, and La Petite Maison. For the visual arts - the
What is one piece in your collection that would be
Victoria & Albert Museum, and the seat at the grand
difficult to part with?
pianoforte in the ballroom of my London club on Brook
There are several pieces for which I have great fondness,
TOP RIGHT: Biedermeier furniture,
autumnal tones of amber, ochre and russet. Is there a piece you wish you had won, but lost
it will be about the facial features, the quality of the
seashells from Jason's collection. The beautiful hues and finishes are all completely natural.
its glaze, as I have always had a predilection for warm
often pause to admire the workmanship of its execution,
The ‘right’ Elizabethan portrait. Whether male or female,
OPPOSITE: Jason Earle-Sprague
Street.
leonardjoel.com.au | 23
— AUCTIONS —
A Last Look In this feature, we revisit a handful of beautiful and extraordinary pieces that have passed through our doors since the last issue...
A Magnificent Platinum And Diamond Ring, 25.02cts Sold for $1,125,000 April Important Jewels Auction
The largest and most expensive diamond ever to come to auction in Australia sold in our April Important Jewels auction in Sydney for $1,125,000 IBP in a historic moment for Leonard Joel. The spectacular platinum and diamond ring featuring a square emerald-cut diamond weighing 25.02 carats delighted clients at the viewings in Melbourne and Sydney before selling at auction to an absentee bidder. When the hammer went down, the previous record for the most expensive diamond sold at auction in Australia – set at Leonard Joel’s Important Jewels auction last August when a 17.34 carat diamond ring sold for $575,000 IBP – was broken.
24 | leonardjoel.com.au
— AUCTIONS —
LEE AGUINALDO (Filipino, 1933-2007) Painting in Green No. 2 1963 Sold for $150,000 March Fine Art Auction
SPACE INVADER Alias LDN-08 1999-2007 Sold for $118,750 March Prints & Multiples Auction
MIKE MAKATRON Fish Forest Sold for $9,500 Me And UooUoo, The RCH150 Anniversary Art Trail Auction, April
Leonard Joel is pleased to announce that over $365,000 was raised at the Me and UooUoo: RCH150 Anniversary Art Trail auction event for The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Foundation on 22 April. Leonard Joel was proud to be A Crocodile Kelly Handbag By Hermès Sold for $45,000 April Luxury Auction
the major auction partner for the event, with our Managing Director John Albrecht coauctioneering, where all 60 of the uniquely designed UooUoo sculptures that have brought colour and creativity to Melbourne and Geelong throughout 2021 were sold.
Serge Mouille Floor Lamp Sold for $5,704 March Modern Design Auction
An Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Wristwatch Sold for $36,250 March Fine Jewels & Timepieces Auction
A Chinese Archaistic Silver Inlaid Bronze Wine Vessel Sold for $37,500 The Collector's Auction, April
leonardjoel.com.au | 25
— PROFILE —
Minutes with… INDIGO KEANE
This issue, we spend five minutes with Indigo Keane, who recently joined the team as Jewellery & Luxury Assistant. Indigo brings her passion and wealth of knowledge of all things style and luxury to her work every day. FAVOURITE MAKER / ARTIST The performance art creations of Alexander McQueen
The day would begin by switching on RAGE and eating
have continued to inspire me for years and years. For
an overwhelmingly fluffy croissant. Post-croissant, I
me, his immersive runway productions throughout the
would begin my power shop (cardio!), stopping in at
90s and early 2000s added an extra dimension to what
Slow Waves, SHAG, Lost & Found and SWOP. On this
fashion could be. His collections were surrounded by their
ideal day, I would score the perfect vintage Versace
own narrative, their own world. For me it was the perfect
frock at the bottom of a bargain bin... A good film
marriage of riveting live performance and breathtaking
to follow, on the couch, sandwiched in between my
craftsmanship.
partner and fatso puppy. We would crack a bottle of
FAVOURITE PIECE OF LUXURY
bubbles and listen to 80s records whilst we slowly get ready for our 7pm booking at Bar Idda. A balmy
This changes minute to minute depending on my
Melbourne night surrounded by pasta, bubbles, frocks,
mood… But today, I cannot stop thinking about the
and friends.
1991 Salvatore Ferragamo stretch lycra catsuit worn on the runway by Linda Evangelista. Tight black lycra, covered in vivid multicoloured high heels… Delicious. FAVOURITE COCKTAIL I love a Campari on the rocks with a wedge of lemon on a hot day! FAVOURITE BOOK Carol by Patricia Highsmith makes my stomach drop, my heart race, and my cheeks blush every time I read it. Patricia’s writing is so bewitching. A book that I can read for the 57th time and still fall into a trance. 26 | leonardjoel.com.au
YOUR IDEAL DAY IN MELBOURNE
22
ND REPORT
We must work together to prevent future pandemics — The newly released World Health Organisation report
pandemic to trade wildlife online and deliver through
on the origins of Covid-19 confirms what we have long
express, IFAW’s government partners joined us in
suspected. Wildlife trade most likely played a role for
mobilising both the online and logistics companies to
the virus to spread from its original wild animal host to
fight illegal wildlife trade.
people.
The harsh sentencing handed down in a court in
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is
Guangdong to a gang of ivory smugglers demonstrates
encouraged to see, finally, world leaders putting politics
China’s zero tolerance stance against wildlife trafficking.
aside to understand the origin of the pandemic.
A newly amended Criminal Law giving more teeth for
China closed the Wuhan Huannan market early on in the epidemic. Realising that most of the samples collected
prosecuting domestic wildlife crime cases, took effect on March 1st.
from the Wuhan market came from an area where wild
IFAW has long conducted behaviour change campaigns
animals were sold, China banned wildlife eating and
to reduce both market supply and consumer demand for
closed all markets selling wild animals, and the farms
wildlife parts and products. We believe that strong laws
supplying these markets with wild animals for food.
combined with vigorous enforcement and meaningful
Since banning wildlife markets, China has also moved to strengthen a series of laws, including the Wildlife Protection Law, the Criminal Law, the Biosafety Law, and
penalties for violators stigmatise wildlife consumption, thus, create an enabling social environment for behaviour change.
the Animal Epidemic Prevention Law. All these legislative
Countering wildlife crime is an issue that is galvanising
moves demonstrate one thing. China considers wildlife
the Chinese society. From the public and the private
crime as a threat to the country’s ecological security as
sector, we have seen overwhelming enthusiasm and
well as public health and safety.
support. Last year, IFAW and Baidu jointly launched the
In February, China revised the addendum to the Wildlife Protection Law. In one fell swoop, China added 517 more species onto the National Protected Species List. For the first time, the 980 species afforded legal protection include not just wild animals that walk, but also those that fly and swim. China’s law enforcers have always considered wildlife crime a serious crime. To ramp up law enforcement in anticipation that criminals may take advantage of the
AI Guardian for Wildlife, using AI technology developed by Baidu to identify images of wildlife parts and products traded online. The online companies have also provided innovative technology enabling IFAW’s demand reduction campaign to reach target audience with precision. To prevent future pandemics, it is imperative that countries around the world work together. By doing that, both wildlife and people will benefit. GRACE GE GABRIEL / IFAW Regional Director, Asia
leonardjoel.com.au | 27
— 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.
28 | leonardjoel.com.au
CAROLINE TICKNER / Head of Valuations caroline.tickner@leonardjoel.com.au
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, 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.
— PROFILE —
Collingwood gallery
Material World Opening Sat 10 July 2– 4pm Until 21 August 2021 – Mark Smith Adrian Lazzaro Bronwyn Hack Rosie O’Brien Chris O’Brien Fuli Andrinoplous Anne Lynch Dorethy Berry Matt Gove Terry Williams
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
30 | leonardjoel.com.au
OPENING HOURS Wed – Fri 11am – 6pm Sat & Sun 12 – 4pm or by appointment
First Floor Collingwood Yards Enter via 35 Johnston St or 30 Perry St, Collingwood
T 0477 211 699 @artsprojectaust gallery@artsproject.org.au www.artsproject.org.au
— PROFILE —
Australasian Art & Culture
ISSUE 34 OUT NOW
SUBSCRIBE NOW AND RECEIVE YOUR COPY OF VAULT MAGAZINE FIRST
AUS $24.95 NZ $29.95
CONNIE AUGOUSTINOS, MIA BOE, KEVIN O’BRIEN, THERESA CHROMATI, GEORGE EGERTON-WARBURTON, JAMES DRINKWATER, SHAUN GLADWELL, CAMILLE HENROT, BILL HENSON, JO LLOYD, DANIE MELLOR, KENT MORRIS, OSCAR PERRY, IMOGEN TAYLOR, SALMAN TOOR, IRIS VAN HERPEN & MORE ISSU E 34 · M AY to J U LY 2021
Connie Augoustinos, Mia Boe, Kevin O’Brien, Theresa Chromati, George Egerton-Warburton, James Drinkwater, Shaun Gladwell, Camille Henrot, Bill Henson, Jo Lloyd, Danie Mellor, Kent Morris, Oscar Perry, Imogen Taylor, Salman Toor, Iris van Herpen & more
SUBSCRIBE NOW VAULTMAGAZINE.COM
SALMAN TOOR Car Boys, 2019 oil on plywood 50.8 x 61 cm
leonardjoel.com.au | 31 Courtesy the artist and Luhring Augustine, New York © Salman Toor
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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, Head of Department 03 8825 5605 | john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au PRINTS & MULTIPLES Hannah Ryan, Specialist 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 BRISBANE Troy McKenzie, Representative Specialist 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 Hannah Sass 03 8825 5621 | jewellery.manager@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 Exceptional Platinum and Diamond Ring Sold for $275,000 April Important Jewels Auction
This document has been produced to international environmental management standard ISO14001 by a certified green printing company.
— PROFILE —
34 | leonardjoel.com.au
