LEONARD, issue 81, August-September 2019

ISSUE 81 AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 2019

LEONARD

AUGUST

The John T. Hinkley Collection Pt I Monday 5 August, 6pm / SYDNEY The John T. Hinkley Collection Pt II

SEPTEMBER

Tuesday 6 August, 11am / SYDNEY Jewels Monday 2 September, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Fine Art Tuesday 3 September, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Luxury Wednesday 11 September, 6pm / MELBOURNE Prints & Multiples Wednesday 11 September, 6pm / MELBOURNE Asian Works of Art

OCTOBER

Tuesday 24 September, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE The John Hurlston Collection Pt I Monday 7 October, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE The John Hurlston Collection Pt II Tuesday 8 October, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Decorative Arts Tuesday 8 October, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Women Artists Wednesday 23 October, 6pm / MELBOURNE Collectables Thursday 24 October, 2pm / MELBOURNE

NOVEMBER

auction calendar —

Modern Design Monday 11 November, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Luxury Wednesday 13 November, 6pm / MELBOURNE Prints & Multiples Wednesday 13 November, 6pm / MELBOURNE The Thursday Auction Furniture & Interiors – 10am Jewellery – 10.30am Art Salon – 11.30am Books & Objects – 12pm MELBOURNE

LEFT: An Emerald and Diamond Ring

$45,000 - 55,000 The John T. Hinkley Auction, Monday 5 August, Sydney

COVER: Photo- Vicki Fishlock-ATE / IFAW

welcome —

This Issue FROM THE DIRECTOR 3 Join us, for a Night with IFAW THE CENTENARY SERIES 4 My Leonard Joel: with Richard Barassi and Brendan Davies AUCTIONS 6 Private Collection: The John T. Hinkley Collection 8 Private Collection: The John Hurlston Collection 10 Jewels: Piaget 12 Fine Art: The Father of Irish Landscape Painting 14 Asian Art: The Alexandra and Leigh Copeland

In this issue, we step into the home of Richard Barassi and Brendan Davies and swoon at their collection of 60s furniture and lighting... read more on page 4.

We also present highlights from The John T. Hinkley Collection, the stock in trade of one of Sydney's most renowned jewellers.

And, among other highlights, we invite you to join us for a very special event, a panel discussion and fundraising auction with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) on Thursday 12 September...read more on page 29.

Collection 16 Modern Design: Lester Bunbury: An Understated Craftsman – 18 Luxury 19 Prints IN FOCUS 20 Venice Biennale 23 Valuations 24 5 Minutes with... Maria Rossi 25 The 22nd Report: From One Species to a Global Movement JOIN US 26 Connect & Buy with Leonard Joel 27 Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist

Enjoy the read and come and see us in our Melbourne or Sydney salerooms soon.

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— PROFILE —

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— FROM THE DIRECTOR —

JOIN US, FOR A NIGHT WITH IFAW. — This night promises to be a fascinating and rare insight in to the world of environmental activism.

Celebrations for our centenary year go over and above our auction calendar with events that really matter. Unquestionably, one of the most meaningful events we will be hosting this year will be on Thursday 12 September when IFAW’s Global President and CEO Azzedine Downes will be visiting from USA. As many of you will be aware, more than two years ago Leonard Joel and IFAW, partnered to end the auction trade in rhinoceros horn and elephant ivory.

That journey, and IFAW’s 50th anniversary this year will form what we hope to be a fascinating evening of presentations of not just how IFAW engages on a global scale with the environmental issues of the day, but also the small but meaningful part Leonard Joel has played in their efforts. A panel discussion will be central to the evening, accompanied by both a live auction of environmental experiences donated by IFAW and an online auction of fine art, with all proceeds going to nominated IFAW projects in Australia. This night promises to be a fascinating and rare insight in to the world of environmental activism through the eyes of arguably the most influential international leader in this field. You, our valued clients and friends, have heartily supported our cessation policy and activism in this space and we invite you yo join us at this event. Numbers will be strictly limited - and we'll expect everyone to raise their hands at the auction! - but we do hope to see you on the night.

JOHN ALBRECHT

Managing Director & Head of Private Collections

ABOVE: GILLIE & MARC (b. 1965 & 1961)

The Rhino’s Flight for Freedom bronze The Rhino’s Flight for Freedom was purchased

by Leonard Joel to celebrate its voluntary policy to cease trade in rhino horn and elephant ivory.

LEFT: Detail of a framed photograph by Gillie & Marc, generously donated by the artists to the IFAW fundraising auction.

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— THE CENTENARY SERIES —

MY LEONARD JOEL —

With Richard Barassi and Brendan Davies

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— THE CENTENARY SERIES —

Can you remember your first visit to Leonard Joel?

Richard: When I first started visiting Leonard Joel, I went along to simply admire what was there. I’ve been a fan of op-shopping for as long as I can remember and this was a continuation of that for me – with a fantastic array of array of art, lighting and furniture.

Do you consider yourself a collector or do you simply buy what you like when you see it?

Brendan: I wouldn’t think of myself as a collector. But, really when you wander around the house and see that you have 75 lamps, you do ask yourself the question, what kind of person needs 75 lamps? So, I suppose I must be a collector!

In this, Part III of Centenary Series: My Leonard Joel we visit the home of early and mid-century design enthusiasts and collectors, Richard Barassi and Brendan Davies.

...My favourite era to collect in is really specific; it’s late 60s to early 70s.

I like the context of what was happening in the world at the time. In the late 60s there was a lot of political upheaval and at the same time, people were making all these beautiful, fluid objects — I mean there was lots of hope for the future (and) I like that futuristic, organic plastic. I mean there was an oil crisis in the early 70s and all of a sudden the cost of plastics went up a lot. So after that period, everything changed and I like that small gap there, particularly Italian — the Italians sort of did it better, always.

Richard: You often get asked when you’re out, or looking around Leonard Joel, what are you looking for? And I always say, I’m looking for something I don’t need!

What do you enjoy about buying at auction? Is it the element of discovery, or the excitement of not knowing whether or not you’ll secure the winning bid?

I think one of my most favourite finds at Leonard Joel, is these Florence Broadhurst prints. Going there and being able to see all this stuff in one go; it may not be stuff that I like but, I’m glad it’s actually there to be seen and I can appreciate it for what it is.

Buying at auction, especially when it’s a specialist auction, you get to see stuff that you never normally see — pieces that would normally, for example be in another person’s home or a gallery or a museum.

Do you have a favourite piece you’ve bought at Leonard Joel or a piece that you wish you’d won, but lost at auction?

Richard: One of the pieces I missed at Leonard Joel — which I still think about and I sort of wish I’d still won — was this beautiful 1980s rug with geometric patterns on it. I think it was American. Anyway, I did this really lacklustre bid…

Brendan: Richard has this really subtle bidding style…

Richard: I don’t think anyone noticed!

Brendan: I love coming to the viewings. Even if I’ve looked online beforehand and I haven’t seen anything I want I’ll still come along as you never know how you’re going to react to a colour or a texture. It’s also a great way to unwind and its sociable. We’ll often see people we know there. And you know, pieces will show up there too — you’ve just got to be patient.

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— AUCTIONS —

PRIVATE COLLECTIONS

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— AUCTIONS —

The John T. Hinkley Collection

We are delighted to be offering The John T. Hinkley

An interesting Cartier Art Deco brooch will also be

Collection at auction in early August. After almost 100

offered. The striking rock crystal plaque provides a canvas

years, the renowned Sydney jeweller and diamond

for a clean geometric design, consisting of an array of

merchant John T. Hinkley is closing its doors, presenting

coral amidst old cut diamonds, and set on a small square

diamond bracelet $22,000 – 28,000

its stock in trade at Leonard Joel in Woollahra.

slice of deep black onyx.

OPPOSITE: A Tiffany & Co,

Split into two parts, The John T. Hinkley Collection Part

In Part II, we present a broader selection of fine jewellery,

I will take place on Monday 5 August, 6pm, while Part II

decorative arts and artefacts from John T. Hinkley, which

goes to auction the following day on Tuesday 6 August,

include a glorious selection of elegant South Sea pearl

11am.

items, a large array of solitaire diamond rings in varying

Part I is led by a sapphire and diamond bracelet by Tiffany & Co from the 1930s (Lot 70). Comprising of

ABOVE LEFT: Interior of John T.

Hinkley Jewellery Store ABOVE RIGHT: A ruby and

sapphire and diamond bracelet, circa 1930 $150,000 – 200,000

styles, joined by a varied range of Gentleman cufflinks and signet rings.

Auctions

two hundred and thirty-four diamonds and twenty-

The final segment of the auction is a range of decorative

Mon 5 August, 6pm

one sapphires, set in platinum, it certainly is a piece

arts that were on display in Hinkley’s showroom, which

Tue 6 August, 11am

emblematic of this glamorous era, and perhaps why it

made up the rich decoration of the store. A small 9ct

SYDNEY

was selected to feature in a composition illustrating and

gold trophy and a large Sèvres vase, bearing a painted

celebrating Art Deco jewellery in Tiffany’s 150 Years. 1

scene of lovers on a river bank, will be particularly

Another particularly fine piece is the ruby and diamond bracelet with nine floral panels, each comprising of five rubies, bordered with brilliant cut diamonds. Alongside the fine selection of ruby adorned pieces is a small

memorable to the jeweller regulars, while a sign from the original stores location is another piece of the Hinkley legacy on offer.

HAMISH CLARK / Head of Sydney Office

number of items featuring Jade, which include an unusual brooch in the form of a finely carved opium spoon.

John Loring, Louis Auchincloss, Tiffany’s 150 Years, Doubleday, New York, 1987 1

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— AUCTIONS —

The John Hurlston Collection

John “Hurlo” Hurlston was often referred to as a bon vivant. Although a pharmacist by trade, his interests resided in many other areas, which later manifested into forming parts of his collection, including epicurean utensils, fine wines, textiles, automobiles, walking sticks and musical instruments. John was dedicated to his interests and often travelled at least once a year, searching for pieces to enhance his broad collection.

Tony Bingham, close friend of John, recalls that John would collect and surround himself with his areas of passion, his main being collecting old and vintage plucked stringed instruments, and other old items that he found interesting or amusing. When Tony first met John in London in the late 1960s, he was buying mostly guitars.

When John returned to Melbourne in 1971, he started seriously collecting other stringed instruments, many of museum quality. John had started buying instruments at the age of thirteen, and was a member of several bands throughout his life, ritually playing the guitar at least once a day. This passion for instruments expanded and John started not only collecting but trading. Starting many businesses including ‘Fretted Instruments’, ‘Warehouse Sound’ and later ‘Guitar Trader’. Guitarists from all over the world would visit John in search for a rare guitar.

The John Hurlston Collection, Part I on 7 October will feature John’s prized collection of instruments totalling over 250 lots of instruments and instrument related accessories including his extensive reference library.

Part II will be offered on 8 October, forming the first section of the Decorative Arts Auction, and includes John’s epicurean antiques, a variety of antique flat ware, Georgian glasses and antique boxes. All of these pieces were used regularly by John and his long-term partner, Sandy when they hosted their well-known soirées and dinners.

CHIARA CURCIO / Head of Decorative Arts

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TOP: Australian F Hole Archtop

Acoustic Guitar By Stephen Gilchrist. Model 18, Serial Number 94275, circa 1980s. $10,000 – 15,000 LEFT: John Hurlston holding a

guitar and an oud, circa 1970

— AUCTIONS —

LEFT TO RIGHT:

American Harp Guitar by Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Manufacturing Co., Ltd Orville Model, Kalamazoo, circa 1910s $3,000 – 5,000

The John Hurlston

A Rare Australian Mandolin

By Giovanni Cera Melbourne, 1930s $1,200 – 1,800

The John Hurlston

Collection Part I Mon 7 October, 6.30pm

Collection Part II Tue 8 October, 6.30pm MELBOURNE

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— AUCTIONS —

JEWELS Piaget

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— AUCTIONS —

Next Jewels Auction Mon 2 Sept, 6.30pm MELBOURNE

LEFT: A Piaget Protocol Diamond

Wristwatch $20,000 – 25,000

Piaget was established in 1874 when Georges Edouard

The 1980s marked an important moment in the Piaget

Piaget set up his first workshop on his family farm in the

story. The brand acquired the status of watchmaker

village of La Côte-aux-Fées, nestled in the mountains

jeweller, and created the most expensive men’s watch for

on the border of France and Switzerland. From here,

its time at a cost of 3,5 million French francs. The watch

he began laying the foundations for what would later

took two years to make with 154 grams of platinum,

become a unique global signature of fine watchmaking,

296 diamonds and a 3.85 carat blue diamond with an

crafting pocket watches and high-precision clock

exceptional luminosity.

movements.

Today, the Swiss Richemont Group owns Piaget, and the

In 1911, George’s son, Timothée Piaget took over

globally celebrated luxury brand is still committed to the

at the helm and shifted the company focus from the

renowned craftsmanship and beauty that the company

manufacture of watch and clock movements only to the

strived for in the early days.

dedicated production of fine wristwatches and in 1943, Piaget became a registered trademark and the signature adorned every creation.

Later, in 1957, George’s grandsons, Gérald and Valentin were instrumental in creating an ultra-thin hand-wound mechanical movement, the first in the history of watch

Piaget timepieces are often adorned with diamonds in 18ct gold and we are thrilled to offer the Piaget Protocol, an exquisite example, in our forthcoming Fine Jewels auction in September.

JULIE FOSTER / Head of Jewels

production. Just three years later the company developed the world’s thinnest automatic mechanical movement in the world with a thickness of just 2.3 mm. This invention, the Calibre12P, revolutionised watchmaking.

In the 1960s they were also launching daring creations set with gemstones and jewels, attracting the attention of an international elite. The brand became a trendsetter in the world of watchmaking, receiving worldwide recognition as a creator of uniquely modern luxury watches

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— AUCTIONS —

FINE ART

The Father of Irish Landscape Painting

PAUL HENRY (Irish, 1877-1958) Turf Stacks in Connemara oil on canvas $60,000 – 80,000

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— AUCTIONS —

Australia’s history is rich with stories of settlers seeking refuge, fortune, and their own piece of “the land of promise”.

—

Next Fine Art Auction Tues 3 Sept, 6.30pm MELBOURNE

TOP: A photo of the Strachan and

Co. wool warehouse in Geelong c. 1930’s BOTTOM: A sketch of the Strachan

and Co. wool warehouse

Wool production remains one of Australia’s largest and most important forms of land use, attracting individuals from afar to reap the benefits. One such individual was the Honorary James Ford Strachan who was one of the first English settlers in Victoria arriving in what was then Van Diemen’s Land in 1832. Victorian locals may know the Strachan family name well, with a strong presence in the Western District through Strachan and Co. Limited, Aitken Walker Strachan, and the Geelong Club . J.F. Strachan was responsible for the erection of the first brick house in Melbourne, and the first stone house in Geelong.

Across the generations, the Strachans continue to hold a significant place within Victorian society and the state’s history. James Ford Strachan III and IV developed a passion for art, collecting paintings that depicted their bountiful landscape of the Western District. There are numerous works from the Strachan family in the collections of the Geelong Club, the Melbourne Club, and the Barwon Heads Golf Club. Leonard Joel is proud to showcase a selection of paintings that remained in the family collection in our upcoming Fine Art auction on Tuesday 3 September.

A significant discovery amongst the family’s heirlooms was a work by revered Irish artist, Paul Henry. Known as the “Father of Irish Landscape Painting” Henry has become one of the most sought after 20th century postimpressionist painters in Irish art history.

Turf Stacks in Connemara masterfully depicts the magnificent scenery of the Connemara wilderness. The remarkable colour harmony and creamy texture of paint are typical of the artist through the later 1920s and 1930s as both his mood and palette lightened. The delicacy and drama of the landscape are brought to life through the awe of the mountain range, the towering clouds somewhat ominous in construction, and the weaving curves of the bog. To some extent Henry used turf stacks to balance his works where other artists may use figures.

This was a consolidation of his style which by now was fully mature.

OLIVIA FULLER / Head of Art

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— AUCTIONS —

ASIAN ART Next Asian Art Auction Tue 24 Sept, 6.30pm MELBOURNE

LEFT TO RIGHT:

A Chinese Champleve Enamel and Gilt Bronze Symbolic offering Qianlong/Jiaqing Period, 18th/Early 19th Century $6,000 –8,000 A Tibetan Bronze Figure of Acala or Wrathful Manjushri 11th/12th Century $3,000 – 5,000

Our forthcoming Asian Works of Art auction in September

Of even greater note in the current market, a wonderful

is comprised of two extraordinary private collections - the

Chinese gilt-bronze and champlevé enamelled altar

first being The Kaspiev Price Collection of Himalayan

piece, dating to the Qianlong or at latest Jiaqing period

Art and the second, The Alexandra and Leigh Copeland

(dated from the particular style of the double lotus base

Collection.

beneath the figure, and with the foliate detailing within

Boris Kaspiev and Richard Price began collecting Himalayan Buddhist and Bon devotional art in the 1990s.

All good collections are formed with self-imposed guidelines, and those applied in this case included rarity and original condition.

Take this rare diminutive bronze figure of Acala (or a wrathful Manjushri). This early Tibetan personal devotional figure, circa 12th century, is captured in a wonderfully dynamic pose as if in the middle of battle, sword held aloft, and with wonderful remnant polychrome and cold gilding to the face.

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the lotus petals). This object is almost without doubt imperial and from Beijing, being either made for use within one of the temples in the Forbidden City or one of the temples in wider Beijing under Imperial patronage.

The collection also features a number of powerful repousse fragments, including some from the now destroyed Densatil monastery in Tibet, a monastery famous for its art made by Nepalese Newari craftsmen, who were brought into Tibet for their exemplary craftsmanship.

— AUCTIONS —

The Alexandra and Leigh Copeland Collection

Much of the Copelands’ collection was formed decades ago through travelling and trading on the original hippy trail, in India and Afghanistan in the 70s and 80s, bringing their acquisitions back to Melbourne to sell to a hungry audience of cultured collectors.

That was in many ways a golden age, where travel in the region was relatively safe, as the advance of modernity was bridging cultures and allowing cross-pollination of ideas and ways of life, and before all the problems ravaged the land.

Amongst the collection are Rajasthani applique and embroidered textiles, Indian wooden sculptures and figurative architectural fragments/fittings, Turkoman silver gilt jewellery and rare Indian reverse-glass paintings.

The Indian wooden carvings are of great interest, particularly in terms of provenance, being personally bought and rescued from sad old houses that were being demolished to make way for modernity in the 1970s, under the facilitation and auspices of the Gujarati handicraft association.

Lastly, an extremely rare, inscribed and dated room size carpet commissioned by an Afghan prince in 1857, before ultimately becoming King.

I would like to leave you with some photos taken by and of the Copelands in Afghanistan in the 1970s, as a taste of an innocent time past, never to be regained, a time which informed the spirit of their warm and wonderful collection.

CARL WANTRUP / Asian Art Specialist

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— AUCTIONS —

MODERN DESIGN Lester Bunbury: An Understated Craftsman

Lester Bunbury was a furniture designer and industrial

His is not the first name that comes to mind when we talk

design lecturer who was active in the middle part of the

about revolutionary Australian mid-century designers.

20th century. While he had no formal design education,

Yet, shortly after his death in 2000 Bunbury was rightfully

he developed his craft under Fred Ward in the late 1930s.

inducted by the Australian Design Institute into their

After the conclusion of the Second World War, Bunbury

Hall of Fame. Bunbury’s career spanned various areas,

was commissioned by the Australian Army to assist in

from interior design to furniture and although it took a

the rebuilding of Hiroshima by giving design lectures in

lifetime, his skill and craftsmanship is now recognised for

Japan. Eventually returning to Melbourne, he established

the understated yet indelible mark left on the Australian

his own practice and designed a number of exhibitions

design landscape.

along with privately commissioned furniture for Australian home interiors.

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ABOVE: LESTER BUNBURY

SIDEBOARD

— AUCTIONS —

Next Modern Design Auction Mon 11 Nov, 6.30pm MELBOURNE

TOP: LESTER BUNBURY

MIRRORED DRESSER BOTTOM: A EUROPEAN THREE

TIER AUTO TROLLEY

Bunbury’s pieces were organic, and celebrated the native timbers he worked with. He loved maple blackbean and cedar, complimenting them with black glass and brass features. A lovely example of this is the two door maple side cabinet (Lot 22) with its steam-line legs and extended brass handles.

In 1953, Bunbury was awarded first and second prize in the Guild of Furniture Manufacturers Design Competition.

Commissioned by Victor Stone in the era before builtin wardrobes were a common feature in the Australian house, this unique wardrobe combines hanging space and drawers within a stylish facade of veneered timber and black glass. Stone later commissioned Bunbury to design the interior of his Collins Street dental surgery, which featured black glass sinks; ground breaking even for today.

Bunbury designed furniture and interiors for a number of prominent public architectural projects, including hospitals for Buchan, Laird and Buchan and the Arbitration Courts for Stephenson and Turner. He was later the in-house designer for William Latchford and Sons. His other notable projects included Bankstown Square, Goldfield House and the Harry Seidler-designed Australia Square.

The Australian mid-century design movement truly gained traction in the years after the Second World War. It was a movement that included all forms of design from architecture, interior, graphic, product, and even urban development. Lester Bunbury’s designs are a true celebration of the modern style; simplistic, streamlined, and still very much in vogue today.

ANNA GRASSHAM / Head of Modern Design

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— AUCTIONS —

Next Luxury Auction Tues 11 Sept, 6pm MELBOURNE

Luxury ‘Pampering our furry friends’ — With 62% of households owning a pet, Australia has one of the highest rates of animal ownership in the world.

For those who don’t currently own a pet, 59% say they would like to in the future.

So just how much do we spend on our four-legged friends? In 2017, Australians spent $12.2 billion on pet related services and products. While this includes vet bills, food and insurance, it also accounts for accessories.

According to a Commonwealth Bank survey in 2018, spending on luxury pet accessories has been exponential, with a growth of 90% in just two years.

International luxury designers are meeting the demand, creating a range of pet accessories to pamper our furry friends. From collars to carriers, these items are scarce, with particular items only available as special in store orders.

The upcoming Luxury auction on 11 September will feature two fabulous dog carriers, one by Louis Vuitton and another by Gucci.

BETHANY MCGOUGAN / Luxury Manager

TOP: A SPECIAL EDITION PET CARRIER

BY GUCCI $2,000 – 2,500 LEFT: A PET CARRIER 50

BY LOUIS VUITTON $800 – 1,200

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— AUCTIONS —

Next Prints & Multiples Auction Tues 11 Sept, 6pm MELBOURNE

Prints & Multiples Three Australian living photographers that you should be collecting.

— Petrina Hicks is a leader within the contemporary photography scene and her work was featured in our Prints & Photography auction in June. Over her 15 year career she has gained a strong reputation for her large scale portraits, which are as enticing as they are unsettling. Her style has a real push and pull between boundaries, a seductive feel with danger attached.

On the surface, Hicks’ photography is a thing of clean refined beauty but upon further inspection dark undercurrents become apparent. A retrospective of Petrina Hicks’ work, from 2003 to present, will be on view at NGV from September — an absolute must-see for enthusiasts and collectors of contemporary photography.

A photographer that is constantly sought after, Narelle Autio is recognised for her lush, glowing and beautiful photographs of figures in water. Her poetic images, that

David Rosetzky, known for his photographic portraits

capture people in environments with heightened tension

and film work is an artist that we love to have within the

and dramatic movement, have twice been selected by

Prints & Photography auction at Leonard Joel. He is best

Australian Art Collector Magazine’s ‘50 Most Collectable

known for his commissioned portrait of Cate Blanchett

Australian Artists’.

which sits at the National Portrait Gallery.

Narelle Autio’s photographs exist in many major public

In 2011, he released a collection of portraits which

collections across Australia, so keep an eye out for these

present a series of layered photographic images with

prized works in future auctions.

sections strategically cut out. This results in a feeling of portraits not being fixed to a single personality. David

HANNAH RYAN / Prints Specialist

Rosetzky’s photographs have been appearing within our Prints and Photography auction as of late, be sure to keep an eye out

TOP: DAVID ROSETZKY (born 1970)

MIDDLE: NARELLE AUTIO

BOTTOM: PETRINA HICKS

Aaron II 2004 c-type photograph collage 50 x 61cm © David Rosetzky/Copyright Agency, 2019

(born 1969) Westerly Wind, Freshwater 2001 c-type photography, 4/10 37 x 58cm

(born 1972) Ousama 2005 lambda print (digital c-type print) 110 x 90cm © Petrina Hicks

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— VENICE BIENNALE —

58th International Art Exhibition

AUSTRALIA AT THE VENICE BIENNALE SEPTEMBER CHAMPIONS’ PROGRAM 2019 SUNDAY 29 SEPTEMBER TO THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER

MONDAY 30 SEPTEMBER Option 1: Fondazione Prada and Hidden Homes A tour through the retrospective exhibition of Jannis Kounellis in the historic headquarters of the Prada Foundation followed by lunch with one of the oldest families embedded in the history of Venice, the Grimani, in their monumental palazzo.

Option 2: Life, Love, and Art Judith Mackrell, acclaimed author of ‘The Unfinished Palazzo’ will introduce you to three visionary women — Luisa Casati, Doris Castelrosse and Peggy Guggenheim — whose lives, loves, and art transformed a neglected palazzo into a renowned museum of modern art.

TUESDAY 1 OCTOBER Art Immersion Artist Angelica Mesiti and curator Juliana Engberg offer personal insights into the acclaimed ASSEMBLY, followed by an Italian picnic lunch by the Pavilion.

WEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER Art Immersion Curator-led tours of the Arsenale pavilions, including through the Ralph Rugoff curated exhibition May You Live in Interesting Times.

THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER Palazzo Fortuny Visit to the original gothic palazzo of designer Mariano Fortuny — a home, an atelier and a vision. Followed by a visit to the current exhibitions The Fortuny: A family story and Yun Hyong-Kuen. A retrospective.

THE CHAMPIONS PROGRAM The Champions’ Program offers supporters a unique opportunity to engage with the Venice Biennale, not only at the official

Afternoon Museo Palazzo Grimani or Art, Glass, and Innovation Exclusive closing dinner at the jewel-like Palazzo Nani Bernardo on the Grand Canal.

Giardini and Arsenale locations, but also in some hidden locations

Enjoy aperitifs in the exquisite garden, with a performance

across the islands of Venice.

by soprano Alexandra Flood, before an intimate seated

A diverse group of Australian curators conduct a series of guided

dinner.

tours, offering insights and context to give our Champions a deeper understanding of the art on display.

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— VENICE BIENNALE —

Diary of a Venice Champion A Biennale week is to be savoured and anticipated and every two years I launch into Venice with vigour and a vengeance. In addition to my usual mad itinerary, this year I joined the “Champions”, a group of patrons formed by the Australia Council. They offered a week of special events around the opening of the 58th La Biennale di Venezia that granted privileged views and cultural experiences for many things otherwise unseen.

Here are just 5 of the many wonderful moments I had the good fortune to experience during my Spring Biennale visit.

BRION SANCTUARY Happy to break from the madding crowd, I chose the Australia Council program’s option to visit the tiny town of Vito di Altivole, Treviso with a band of merry and likeminded Champions. Here, set against the backdrop of the Dolomite mountains and nestled surreptitiously into the fields of the Po valley was Carlo Scarpa’s exceptional Brion Tomb and Sanctuary situated within the grounds of the local cemetery.

Built during the 1970s as a commission for the Brion family, founders of an electronics empire, its suite of distinctively designed buildings include a striking chapel and a meditation pavilion. It is said that Scarpa wanted to make “a certain kind of architecture that could emanate a sense of formal poetry”1 . Scarpa thoroughly succeeded through his melange of Japanese and modernist influences, fluently and masterfully expressed in concrete with a hint of copper and ceramic.

The Brion sanctuary is an impressive architectural essay that gently envelops attendees with a tangible stillness casting its indelible presence as a temple of contemplation.

1. https://newyorkessays.com/essay-tomb-brion-carloscarpa/ GLASSTRESS A must-see during the Biennale is the Glasstress project by glass-master Adriano Berengo. I never fail to delight in the unexpected creative forms that are forged in this collaboration between Berengo and renowned contemporary artists.

TOP: Sophie Ullin and Prof. Wendy Brown BOTTOM: Carlo Scarpa's Brion Tomb and Sanctuary

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— VENICE BIENNALE —

For the first time these ambitious visions were displayed

back to painting and a buzz surrounded Henry Taylor’s

in the industrial premises of the Berengo Studio on

(USA) raw narratives whilst Arthur Jafa won the artist’s

Murano amongst old glass furnaces and factory spaces.

Golden Lion for his installation and video, The White

The Champions were given a ringside seat, previewing

Album. The Ghana pavilion, also situated within the

the Glasstress exhibition with a private tour by curator

Arsenale, was a clear favourite amongst critics, featuring

Koen Vanmechelen, who unveiled 10-year anniversary

the magnificent metal seal (bottle caps) wall installations

highlights by Tracey Emin, alongside new work by Erwin

of El Anatsui, the absorbing video of John Akomfrah and

Wurm and Ai Weiwei.

portraits by the nation’s first female photographer Felicia

GIARDINI

Abban. Beyond Ghana, there were other notable works featured in the national pavilions in the Arsenale, such as

The Champions had a secret weapon in the battle against

Jitish Kallat’s cascading fog projection, Covering Letter

FOMO and fatigue; close to hand were curator led

2012 situated in the Indian Pavilion. Then there was Eva

tours to take them to Giardini, the heart of the Biennale.

Rothschild in the Ireland pavilion…and the list goes on.

Amongst those sharing their considerable intellectual

There is truly so MUCH to see…its richer than the magic

prowess were institutional luminaries including Geelong’s

and flavours of Messina!

Jason Smith, QAGOMA’s Geraldine Kirrihi Barlow and AGSA’s Leigh Robb. Mirka Mora’s angels spread their

MUSEO FORTUNY

wings all the way to Venice as Heide’s Kendrah Morgan

I am not able to leave La Serenissima without a

was my guide, enriching us all with her acute insights. The

pilgrimage to my all-time favourite house museum,

angels must have been smiling too as Kendrah brought

Palazzo Fortuny. Here, on the first floor, a cabinet of

us to the pavilion of Mirka’s compatriot, France’s Laure

curiosities awaits where no natural light passes through

Provost’s who shares a similar cheeky humour and quirky

the suite of rooms which are covered from end-to end in

sensibility!

Mariano Fortuny’s celebrated hand-printed textiles from

ARSENALE This year the Curatorial Director, Ralph Rugoff, chose the approach “May You Live in Interesting Times” in bringing together the work of 130 artists across the spectrum of video to installation to painting and performance.

Rugoff deviated from his predecessors through his idea of showing the same artists in both the Giardini’s Central Pavilion and the Arsenale, creating a powerful echo and resonance within this most visceral of Biennale experiences.

Artists with African heritage staked a claim as being amongst the most striking curatorial participants: Njideka Akunyili Crosby was a breakout star bringing the focus

22 | leonardjoel.com.au

the early 20th century. Each visit to this sensory realm is never the same.

On this occasion, the versatile and remarkable talents of the polymath, Mariano Fortuny and those of his artist father formed the central exhibition The Fortuny: A Family Story. Orientalist paintings, portraits, classic canal scenes and Symbolist narratives were punctuated with examples of Fortuny’s innovative clothing designs expressed through his elegant and timeless fabrics.

SOPHIE ULLIN Sophie@sophieullinartadvisory.com 0407 360 513 / the_artprism Author of The Venice Book: A Personal Guide to the City’s Art & Culture, Thames + Hudson

LEFT: Glasstress at Berengo Studios MIDDLE: Anicka Yi - Biologizing the Machine (tentacular trouble) in the Arsenale RIGHT: Museo Fortuny

— VALUATIONS —

Valuations We are proud to have recently become an official corporate member of the Auctioneers and Valuers Association of Australia (AVAA).

— The AVAA is Australia’s leading national body of

directly to our vendors. We are proud to say that we

Auctioneers and Valuers of fine art, antiques and

have adhered to this as a strict company policy and by

collectables, chattels, plant and equipment. AVAA

belonging to the AVAA we have had an external review

members are committed to providing the highest levels

of accounts to verify this process. In addition, Leonard

of professionalism in their dealings with clients and as

Joel continues to improve our rapid payment process,

a certified member we are required to demonstrate

ensuring settlement to our vendors occurs quickly and

knowledge, skills, experience and adhere to the

seamlessly.

Association’s professional and ethical standards.

The AVAA is registered with Australian Securities and

For any formal valuation please feel free to contact me to discuss your requirements.

Investments Commission with a published Constitution, Code of Ethics & Rules of Conduct and as an official member we can publicly uphold our values, expertise

CAROLINE TICKNER / Head of Valuations

and knowledge with the backing and recognition of a professional industry body.se fields of auction Leonard Joel is excited to be part of the AVAA and to provide all of our clients with the confidence and assurance that we abide by these principles and that their possessions are in the best possible hands. We strive to uphold these values and look forward to being actively involved in the training and networking opportunities with other auctioneers and valuers from around the country.

One of the key requirements of membership with the AVAA is the ability to demonstrate that all monies received from our buyers are held in trust to be paid

leonardjoel.com.au | 23

— PROFILE —

Minutes with…

MARIA ROSSI

This issue, we spent 5 minutes with Maria Rossi, Graphic Designer.

FAVOURITE BOOK One of my favourite books is one I have read only recently titled ‘Just Kids’ by Patti Smith.

Such an enjoyable read as she takes you back to New York City from the 60s – 80s and shares her life about love, survival and what it means to be an artist. Her life and connections truly touched me as I couldn’t put the book down, I even cried at the end.

FAVOURITE ARTIST Dorothy Braund would have to be one of my favourite artists as I love the simplicity of her works and her use of form and colour. I am mostly drawn to the beach scenes of people as I have a love of the sea. My favourite work of hers is ‘Three Summer Shapes 1965’, it was actually on the front cover of a fine art catalogue in March 2016.

FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART! One of the first pieces of art I bought at LJ is an etching by, funnily enough, my favourite artist Dorothy Braund called ‘The Journey.’ It’s the use of simple lines and geometric shapes that caught my eye.

FAVOURITE COFFEE / WINE / COCKTAIL Being addicted to coffee, I drink a strong almond milk cappuccino every morning without fail.

A funny thing about me is that I drink according to the weather. So I love a good red with dinner during the cold winter nights, and then during the spring and summer

24 | leonardjoel.com.au

I switch to drink a rose — but to be honest, I’d happily drink this all year round.

I have two favourite cocktails, I love a mojito in the summer or if I’m on holiday by the pool. Then an espresso martini would be my go-to the rest of the time.

IDEAL DAY IN MELBOURNE I love being with my family, so my ideal day would start with an early morning family bike-ride, which we do most weekends along the Altona and Williamstown cyclepaths. We’d then take our dog Boo for a walk and stop at our local cafe Bezirk for coffee and enjoy the beach views of the bay.

I’d then get stuck into a good book for a couple of hours, have a big lunch, then being the four movie buffs that we are, we’d end the day at our local cinema, Sunset Theatre to watch the latest flick.

22

ND REPORT

President and CEO, International Fund for Animal Welfare

From One Species to a Global Movement — Fifty years ago, the International Fund for Animal Welfare

platform to influence other auction houses in Australia

(IFAW), was founded after a group of concerned individuals

and internationally, to adopt similar bans. The unrivaled

first witnessed newborn seal pups being slaughtered on the

commitment to this issue by Leonard Joel’s Managing

ice floes off Canada’s East Coast. At that moment, IFAW

Director John Albrecht and his entire team has been

took on one problem that threatened one species in one

instrumental to ensuring change that is so needed.

part of the world. With the European ban on whitecoat harp seal product in 1983, its efforts saved more than one million seal pups.

On this 50th anniversary for IFAW, we pledge to continue our work to achieve a world where animals and people are thriving together. We know however that we cannot do this

After that historic victory, IFAW has taken on more problems

alone. To help us achieve our goals for wildlife, we believe

threatening more species in over 40 countries across the

in the collective movement and in working with partners like

globe. And the impact of the organization has grown as

Leonard Joel, governments, local communities, and other

well. With its work expanding to include new species, new

NGOs — in essence, each and every human being that has

regions and new strategies, IFAW is now rescuing more

an interest in the sustainability of this planet we inhabit.

animals and securing more habitats than at any other point in its history, with a global team that includes experts in the fields of biology, ecology, cybercrime, forensic science, forestry, oceanography, and zoology. It also includes activists and negotiators. Rescue workers and consensusbuilders.

Throughout this next half-century, we will continue to get even more creative as an organization — whether it’s who we partner with, where we work or what solutions we drive.

Because the future ultimately depends on what we do now. Many across the globe are concerned because of the changes they see all around them — animals and habitats

Simply put — Individual animals matter. This is the firm

that disappear, natural disasters growing more extreme, and

bedrock of IFAW’S philosophy. As the challenges that

relentless crimes against nature. Some say it’s even too late.

these individual animals and their habitats face have grown

But at IFAW, we have 50 years’ worth of reasons to believe

larger and more complex, so has IFAW’s approach. And

otherwise.

it is this approach that has resulted in a partnership with the Melbourne institution of Leonard Joel. This seemingly unlikely partnership has already driven critical momentum for change. This change includes assisting the auction house to phase out ivory sales over a two-year period as

And thus by rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing animals, one by one — by protection their habitats and helping them flourish — we can save other species. And ultimately our own.

well as implementing a full ban on rhino horn, a policy

BY AZZEDINE DOWNES

that came into full effect at the beginning of this year. As

—

the auction house celebrates its centenary anniversary this year, Leonard Joel has become a vocal champion of

Photo: Vicki Fishlock-ATE / IFAW

the domestic ivory ban and has openly used its reputable leonardjoel.com.au | 25

— JOIN US —

Connect / Browse / Bid

With regular auctions in Fine Art, Jewels & Watches, Decorative Arts, Modern Design and Luxury, there’s something to suit every taste and budget at Leonard Joel.

Connect

Bid Create an account online and use it every time you bid. You can also receive Lot alerts tailored to your interests. Bidding is easy and you can do so in person, online, or by phone. Our team is always on hand to guide you.

Subscribe to stay up to date with news on upcoming auctions, special events and industry insights, or follow us on social.

Browse Browse our online auction catalogues or view in person at one of our salerooms.

26 | leonardjoel.com.au

Contact a Leonard Joel team member or stop by a salesroom if you have any questions.

5 – 8 SEPTEMBER Royal Exhibition Building Melbourne Contemporary art priced between $100 – $12,000

G E T C LO S E R TO A R T

— JOIN US —

Sell / Value / Buy Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist

John Albrecht

The Thursday Auction Specialists —

03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au

ART SALON

MANAGING DIRECTOR & PROPRIETOR

Auction Specialists — PRIVATE COLLECTIONS John Albrecht, Head of Department 03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au FINE ART Olivia Fuller, Head of Department 03 8825 5624 | olivia.fuller@leonardjoel.com.au JEWELS Julie Foster, Head of Department 03 8825 5605 | julie.foster@leonardjoel.com.au

Hannah Ryan 03 8825 5630 | hannah.ryan@leonardjoel.com.au FURNITURE Toby Lennox-Hilton 03 8825 5640 | toby.lennox-hilton@leonardjoel.com.au JEWELLERY Bethany McGougan 03 8825 5645 | bethany.mcgougan@leonardjoel.com.au OBJECTS & COLLECTABLES Nora Merralls 03 8825 5604 | nora.merralls@leonardjoel.com.au

Chiara Curcio, Head of Department

Valuations —

03 8825 5635 | chiara.curcio@leonardjoel.com.au

Caroline Tickner, Head of Department

DECORATIVE ARTS

Hamish Clark, Head of Department, Sydney 02 9362 9045 | hamish.clark@leonardjoel.com.au MODERN DESIGN Anna Grassham, Head of Department 03 8825 5637 | anna.grassham@leonardjoel.com.au COLLECTABLES Nora Merralls 03 8825 5625 | nora.merralls@leonardjoel.com.au LUXURY Bethany McGougan 03 8825 5645 | bethany.mcgougan@leonardjoel.com.au

03 8825 5638 | caroline.tickner@leonardjoel.com.au

Marketing & Communications — Nicole Kenning, Head of Department 03 8825 5620 | nicole.kenning@leonardjoel.com.au Kim Soep, Coordinator 03 8825 5620 | kim.soep@leonardjoel.com.au Maria Rossi, Graphic Artist Adam Obradovic, Videographer & Photographer Joseph Hammond, Videographer & 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

leonardjoel.com.au | 29

— PROFILE —

30 | leonardjoel.com.au