Issue THIRTYTWO / SEPTEMBER 2014
MELBOURNE / SYDNEY
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Cover Fine Jewellery Auction Monday 15 September at 6pm Melbourne Lot 193 A LATE VICTORIAN DIAMOND PENDANT $40,000 - 60,000 Purportedly originally owned by the former British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli
Leonard Joel Specialists
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Jewellery & Pre–Owned Luxury
Art
Classic furniture & Objects
NATIONAL HEAD OF collections
John D’Agata, National Head of Jewellery
Sophie Ullin, Head of Art
single owner COLLECTIONS
John Albrecht, Managing Director
& Sydney Office
Phone + 61 (0) 3 8825 5609
Guy Cairnduff, Head of Classic Furniture & Objects
& Head of Collections
Phone + 61 (0) 3 8825 5605
Email sophie.ullin@leonardjoel.com.au
& Head of The Specialist Collector
Phone + 61 (0) 3 8825 5619
Email john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au
Phone +61 (0) 3 8825 5611 Email guy.cairnduff@leonardjoel.com.au
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VINTAGE interiors & MODERN DESIGN
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JEWELLERY
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Anna Grassham, Vintage Interiors Manager
Chiara Curcio, Specialist, Classic Furniture
Robert Haigh, Manager & Jewellery Specialist
Phone + 61 (0) 2 9362 9045
& Modern Design Specialist
& Objects, Books and Manuscripts
Phone + 61 (0) 3 8825 5618
Email robert.williams@leonardjoel.com.au
Phone + 61 (0) 3 8825 5614
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Email chiara.curcio@leonardjoel.com.au
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Designer
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Rick Merrie
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Email giles.moon@leonardjoel.com.au
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COnTenTs
WHERE CaN I FIND LEONaRD?
sEPtEmBEr contEnts FOREWORD
2
NEWS
4
CaLENDaR
5
YOSL BERGNER SCULPTURES
6
FINE aRT
8
a LaTE vICTORIaN DIaMOND PENDaNT
10
INaUGURaL SYDNEY aUCTION
12
FINE JEWELLERY
14
CLaSSIC FURNITURE & OBJECTS
16
vINTaGE INTERIORS
18
MODERN DESIGN
19
COLLECTIBLES ENTRIES INvITED
20
vaULT
21
If you have enjoyed Leonard and would like to stay up to date with our auctions and events you can collect a copy from our South Yarra and Woollahra offices at the start of every month. But don’t delay as copies run out quickly!
DISCOVERY MONTH This month Leonard Joel valuers will be visiting clients in Caulfield.
THINKING OF SELLING? FROM SINGLE ITEMS TO COLLECTIONS If you have a single item or collection you wish to sell, the Leonard Joel team of specialists can guide you through the entire valuation and auction process. We can provide you with experts across all collecting fields, no less than thirteen categories of auction to select from and the most expansive calendar of catalogue auctions in Australia. Leonard Joel specialists conduct insurance and market valuations for the entire spectrum of clients - private collectors, corporations, museums, fiduciaries and government entities are advised by our valuers and specialists on a daily basis. valuation Enquiries | Melbourne 03 9826 4333 | Sydney 02 9362 9045 | info@leonardjoel.com.au
LEoNARD
1
Discovered in Sydney This intricately decorated 18carat gold open face pocket watch sold for more than double its low estimate for $3,660 IBP.
SEPTEMBER
FOREWORD
A PAIR OF STRAITS CHINESE ROSEWOOD AND MOTHER OF PEARL INLAID ARMCHAIRS LATE 19TH CENTURY
Sold $7,320 IBP
SEPTEMBER
2
LEONARD
FOReWord
95 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY
On Sunday August 24th I had the absolute to quarterly fine catalogue auctions in collecting base and Melbourne buyers will of connectivity with buyers from around the pleasure of auctioning at our first Sydney Sydney we further strengthen and augment enjoy the expanded offering also. Both world. Add to this an auction house with 95 auction. I had never auctioned within a hotel the successful buying and selling that can be buyers and sellers in each state also enjoy years of unrivalled experience across every before and I must say it was fun and it felt done between the two states. Some simple our live online bidding platform that in fine category and I believe we have once glamorous – I look forward to the next one! facts might assist this discussion. Growing essence connects every seller with every again with Leonard Joel a grand full-service At first glance one could easily be forgiven our buyer base in Sydney introduces a wider online buyer. In many ways I see the Sydney, auctioneer for every collector, great and for thinking that our extended commitment audience to every lot we sell – Sydney clients Melbourne and online environments as small. now to the Sydney market is great for Sydney don’t just buy from Sydney catalogues they completing a perfect coverage of the two but “no big deal” for Melbourne; but I’d beg buy from all our offerings. Equally, Sydney biggest markets for antiques, jewellery and to differ. With Leonard Joel now committing sellers can enjoy an expanded Melbourne art in the country and with the added benefit
John Albrecht MANAGING DIRECTOR & NATIONAL HEAD OF COLLECTIONS
LEONARD
3
SEPTEMBER
neWs
WHaT IS a WaTCH?
LEONARD JOEL PROUDLY SUPPORTS
aRTS PROJECT aUSTRaLIa
To be offered at the Fine Jewellery Auction Monday 15 September at 6pm 142 AN EARLY OPEN FACED MUSICAL REPEATER POCKET WATCH $4,000 - 6,000
WHAT is a watch? Technically it’s a small machine that makes sure we’re not
The Leonard Joel series, in conjunction with Arts Project Australia, now in its
late. Emotionally, it can represent status, reveal something about ourselves,
fourth year provides an opportunity to feature a single artist from the talented
or be a timeless love token. With more than 250 colour images, the focus of
pool of creative individuals that drive this unique art studio in Northcote, Victoria.
this fascinating book are 77 watches out of the 4,5000 collection that spans
When I review the retrospective within these pages and write the foreword it is
five hundred years - from the sixteenth century, right through to contemporary
always a treat for me because I have the fortunate task of writing from the heart
timepieces worn today.
about what my eyes tell me rather than the pressure of an academic response to
Ironically, pinpointing exactly when the watch was invented is impossible, but
the exhibition at hand. I am not an art historian, I am an amateur critic and I do
author David Thompson says there is evidence to suggest that it may have been
love immersing myself in challenging art imagery. The Arts Project Australia artists
in northern Italy towards the end of the fifteenth century.
always deliver a challenge and for me also delight! And this year Julian Martin’s
In 1512 Joannes Cocleus referred to a man who made objects “that astonished
collection of some seventy works is no exception. My first inspection of the works
the most learned mathematicians; out of very little iron he assembled timepieces
is so satisfying on four fronts – his bold use of block colour, his playful range of
with many wheels”.
subject matter, the breadth of his colour palette and his figurative abstraction
In the 1600s German Johann Conrad Wolf made a watch in the form of a tiny
make this exhibition for me an immensely satisfying one. My favourites? There
skull, a fashionable memento mori popular in the day. With the inscription, “vita
are always several and here I will restrict my highlights to five. Not titled (green
fugitur” (life is fleeting) the two pieces of the skull operate on a hinge that allows
animal) reminds me of something the artist Coburn might have contemplated
the pieces to open and close.
when he was in a less formal mood and the three works from the Not titled shape
Another remarkably decorative timepiece was made by Irishman John Travel in
series (51, 52 and 43) I find haunting in their uncomplicated use of colour and
1816. The Silver Cased Verge Watch features a detailed representation of a train
structure. Finally, I keep coming back to what for reminds me of a Rothko; 0045
passing in front of a bridge. Clearly a slave to detail, the artist has even included
Not titled (yellow and brown) and again, its bold use of colour and structure is
glimpses of passengers sitting on the train.
what underpins its attraction to me. In reality favourites are difficult to discern
Fast forward to the 1930s, the name Rolex is about to become synonymous with
when the survey is as comprehensive and deep as this one; both stylistically and
watch making around the globe and dominate the industry.
in terms of the myriad narratives within this artist’s collection. So put simply I’m
Written a lively and engaging way, David Thompson relays enthusiasm for his
left immensely satisfied after walking through this collection and similarly proud
subject, without bogging the reader down in too many obscure details. Watches
to be lending Leonard Joel’s support to this extraordinary artist and this important
is a fascinating, beautifully illustrated book about an everyday object that
institution.
continues to intrigue. Frances Atkinson for My Bookshop By Corrie Perkin
John Albrecht Managing Director and Proprietor WaTCHES By David Thompson The British Museum, $35
Corrie Perkin is the owner of My Bookshop By Corrie Perkin,
Leonard Joel is a proud supporter of Arts Project Australia
513 Malvern Road, Hawksburn www.mybookshop.net.au
SEPTEMBER
4
LEoNARD
Calendar
THE NEW JONESES
Forthcoming Auctions
BUY NOTHING NEW MONTH
The Vintage Interiors Auction Every Thursday Furniture & Interiors – 10am Jewellery & Wristwatches – 10.30am Art – 11.30am Books – 12pm Objects & Collectibles – 12pm
BID LIVE ONLINE
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
Fine Jewellery Auction Monday 15th September 2014 – 6pm 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
Fine Art Auction Tuesday 16th September 2014 – 6.30pm 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
Cameras & Photography Auction Thursday 25th September 2014 – 12pm 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
Collectibles including Militaria Auction Buy Nothing New Month is the global movement for collective, conscientious
Thursday 25th September 2014 – 1.30pm
consumption.
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
The little idea that started in Melbourne, has spread across the world, with
Arts Project Australia Auction
pledgers from Newtown to New York, South Africa to South America.
Monday 6th October 2014
In 2011, the Sydney Morning Herald Business section ran a poll asking “is Buy
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
CHARITY AUCTION
Nothing New Month a good idea?” Over 10,000 voted. 82% said “yes”.
Pre-Owned Luxury Auction
It’s a one month challenge to buy nothing new (with the exception of essentials
Thursday 9th October 2014 – 1pm
like food, hygiene and medicines)
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
Buy Nothing New Month isn’t Buy Nothing New Ever Again. Nor is it about going
Aboriginal Art & Artefacts Auction
without.
Thursday 16th October 2014
A bit like FebFast or Dry July encourages us to rethink our boozing, it’s a one
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
month detox on unnecessary consumption that gets us to ask ourselves, “Do I really need it?” “can I get it second-hand, borrow, swap or rent it? “What are my
Classic Furniture & Objects Auction
alternatives?”
Sunday 26th October 2014 – 12pm 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
It’s about thinking where our stuff comes from (finite resources) and where it goes when we’re done (often landfill).
Modern Design Auction
In the UK, they will run out of landfill space by 2018.
Thursday 6th November 2014
Repeat. In the UK in 4 years, they will have nowhere left for their rubbish.
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
This October, get onboard and check out the fantastic alternatives to extend
Collectibles including Movie Posters Auction
the life of existing goods (like buying second hand, swapping, sharing or buying
November 2014
experiences over more ‘stuff’.)
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
It’s easy, creative and fun. It’s moving from consumption-driven to community-
Jewels & Objets D’Art Auction
driven.
Sunday 16th November 2014
It’s good for us, our wallets our people and our planet.
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne, Victoria
SYDNEY AUCTION
Hop on board! - See more at: http://www.buynothingnew.com.au/
Auctions and viewing times are subject to change.
LEONARD
5
SEPTEMBER
YOSL BERGNER SCULPTURES
“THE PARTY” YOSL BERGNER SCULPTURES “I am a painter, not an artist. A painter is a profession, like a carpenter.” Yosl Bergner This statement from the celebrated Australian-Israeli artist was accurate until Bergner turned 90 years of age because in 2010 he moved beyond the realm of painting and began constructing extraordinary sculptures. On the 13th of October Yosl Bergner will celebrate his 94th birthday and it marks a half a century ago since he dreamt of and conceived the stories for his sculptural works in his over-active brain. In the 1960s Yosl found that to depict three dimensional images within a painting as a mechanism to tell a story was not considered de rigueur - Yosl however, before becoming an artist, was always a story-teller and it was through sculpture that he found this opportunity to share these stories. Yosl’s heroes were and remain wooden horses with childlike jockeys, musicians, children with kites, with masks and apples, a couple with butterflies full of dreams and a butterfly catcher full of hope. These characters and others, as Dr. Gideon Ofrat explains in his exhibition catalogue of Bergner’s sculptures in Haifa, Israel: “... have spread among countless paintings since then-returning to the paint whence they came. Now, in their reincarnation as sculptures, they are still paintings cast in bronze, only now it seems that gathering these sculptured “Yosls” together between 2010 and 2014 is more loaded, emotional and touching. This party seems to be a hybrid between a reunion and a farewell party...” Ofrat suggests there is an existential message within these works: ”The 93 year old Bergner is saying YES to life from the depth of their ephemeral, tragic-comical essence. Bergner says this in the “be that as it may”, in the spirit of ‘joie de vivre’ and in his surprising reincarnation as a sculptor at such a venerable age.” Thirteen of the sculptures within this current survey have never been exhibited before and ten of them are uniquely produced as a 1/1 edition; a rare collecting opportunity. As Yosl approaches his 94th birthday he remains unchanged as a spirited artist and I hope he never will. Shaike Snir Dan Gallery representative in Australia.
Preview
CONTACT
333 Malvern Road, South Yarra Melbourne VIC 3141 3 - 5 September 10am - 4pm 6 - 7 September 12pm - 4pm 8 - 14 September 10am - 4pm
Sophie Ullin, Head of Art (03) 8825 5609 / 0413 912 307 sophie.ullin@leonardjoel.com.au
Please note that the price for editioned works is tiered. Once the early editions are sold, then the asking price is elevated to the next bracket. This information can be provided upon request.
In partnership with Dan Gallery Israel
All sculptures are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist
Yosl Bergner at work creating his sculptures
SEPTEMBER
6
LEONARD
YOSL BERGNER SCULPTURES
12 The Butterfly Lovers 2012 bronze 52cm height unique state 1/1 $16,500 5 Girl with Stone Kite 2013 bronze 135cm height edition of 5 $21,000
9 Father and Son 2012 bronze 40cm height unique state 1/1 $16,000
14 The Cellist 2012 bronze 46cm height unique state 1/1 $15,000
LEONARD
7
SEPTEMBER
FINE ART
FINE ART 122 NEIL MCIRVINE (born 1959) Matt Preston with Caravaggio Still Life 2005 oil on canvas 122 x 183cm $3,500 - 4,500
108 MIKE PARR (born 1945) The Umbrella of Glass (Fading) (red) 1981-1993 cibachrome photograph 184 x 127cm $5,000 - 7,000
2 LEONARD FRENCH (born 1928) Study for Death of a General 1976 mixed media on board 42 x 48.5 cm $4,500 - 6,500 Š reproduced with the permission of VISCOPY Ltd
SEPTEMBER
8
LEONARD
FINE ART
PREVIEW 95 YEARS OF ART
This year, Leonard Joel’s 95th as an
have changed! Only a few decades ago
three periods that found their way to us
in return. But these are just three works
auctioneer and my first year as Head of
the Moderns, such as Nolan, Boyd and
for this September art auction – it begins
amongst a reassuringly eclectic mix of
Art at this Australian icon, marks almost a
Tucker seemed avant garde. Now? Well
with, well a classic work and ends with
works from so many periods and regions
century of fine art transacting. It will be lost
some refer to them as traditionals! The
a contemporary one. Gazing at Clarice
and in a time when so many art catalogues
on younger generations that this auction
constant in all of this for me is that Leonard
Beckett’s Eternity (lot 78), I am reminded
seem too sparse, too manicured and a
house made the impossible happen
Joel has inevitably adapted to these
how her atmospheric landscapes always
little dry I love the fact that I represent an
when in 1988 we sold the first painting
changing tastes while retaining its eclectic
succeed in happily transporting my mind
art department that at its heart enjoys an
in Australia for more than $1,000,000.
appetite for all fine art periods. It seems
elsewhere. The joyful Billabong (lot 17) by
eclectic and contemporary sensibility.
The painting was a grand Impressionist
to me that in 2014 a street art auction, a
Henri Bastin is close to my heart having
I look forward to welcoming you at our
work by Rupert Bunny, its dimensions
contemporary art sale or even the estate
grown up in a home overflowing with
viewing in our South Yarra rooms.
were Rubinesque and the subject matter
of Pro Hart sits as comfortably at Leonard
naïve art.
was pure elegance. It also reflected the
Joel as any of the “traditional” fine art
Bowen’s Aeroplane Boy (lot 55 ) as an
prevailing
traditional
categories. With this in mind I thought I
additional member of my family: he is
subject matter and genre. My how things
would share with you three works, from
full of character but would ask for little
taste
for
more
I would also welcome Dean Sophie Ullin, Head of Art
55 DEAN BOWEN (born 1957) Aeroplane Boy 2004 bronze, ed. 4/6 91 x 248 x 35cm $10,000 - 15,000 © reproduced with the permission of VISCOPY Ltd
The Fine Art Auction Tuesday 16 September 2014, 6.30pm
LEONARD
Preview Wednesday 10 September 2014 9am - 8pm Thursday 11 September 2014 10am - 4pm Friday 12 September 2014 10am - 4pm Saturday 13 September 2014 10am - 5pm
Sunday 14 September 2014 10am - 5pm Monday 15 September 2014 By Appointment Tuesday 16 September 2014 By Appointment
9
Enquiries Sophie Ullin Head of Art (03) 8825 5609 / 0413 912 307 sophie.ullin@leonardjoel.com.au
SEPTEMBER
A LATE VICTORIAN DIAMOND PENDANT
A LATE VICTORIAN D It was one of those jaw
Geelong
dropping moments………
School in 1856 and finally at
when the box opened and we
Wadham College, Oxford, from
all gasped. A
humble
Grammar
1857 where he graduated B.A. in country
gentleman
1861. He was called to the Bar at the
presented a pale green velvet box and
Middle Temple in January 1863. While at
apprehensively slid it across the desk. The
Oxford he rowed in the Oxford and Cambridge
item had been in the family for many years,
annual boat race on the Thames in 1861, and was
held by his mother who had passed away ten years
one of the winning crew, being the first of several
earlier and it was now in his possession.
young Australians who have taken part in the great inter-
The unassuming box, a twenty fifth wedding anniversary
university race.
gift, presented on 25th April 1888, was opened to reveal a
While in England, the young William Robertson met and
magnificent belle époque diamond pendant.
subsequently married Martha Mary, second daughter of J. R. Murphy,
Characteristic of the era, the pendant has a bow surmount suspending
another successful pioneer from Melbourne who had retired back to
a garland style diamond drop.
England with his family.
The most unique, rare and captivating feature of the pendant was the octahedral
In 1863 William and Martha returned to Victoria, where William was admitted
faceted diamond suspended in the centre of the garland. A most difficult shape
to the Bar in the following year. For several years he practised as a barrister in
to calculate the weight of, ultimately estimated at 12.5carats.
Melbourne, but at the General Election of 1871 he became a candidate for
What has been most interesting was the reported history of the piece,
the electorate of Plowarth and South Grenville (the Colac area) and was
believed to have been owned originally by the late Benjamin Disraeli
returned by a large majority, but when the Parliament expired in 1872
(former prime minister of England).
he did not offer himself for re-election. He stood again in 1881, and sat till 1886. His father died in January 1874 and the Colac
William Robertson (29 March 1839 – 23 June 1892) was a
estate was inherited by his four sons. John; George Pringle,
barrister and politician in colonial Victoria.
James and William who continued to run the property under
William Robertson’s father was also William Robertson, one of
the old family name of Robertson Brothers. Before their father’s
the great pioneers of western Victoria. William Senior emigrated
death, William’s brothers had each built their own fine mansions
to Hobart, Tasmania, from his native Scotland in 1822 with his
on the estate, two of which survive today, while William and Martha
brother John and together they engaged in pastoral pursuits at
continued to live in The Hill.
Campbelltown, outside Hobart, before establishing their merchant’s
In 1886 the resignation of Caleb Jenner caused a vacancy in the
business, Robertson Brothers, with premises in Hobart and
representation of the South Western Province in the Victorian Legislative
Launceston. William Snr married Margaret Whyte in 1831 and their
Council.
son William was born in 1839, the third of their seven children.
William put his name forward and was returned without
opposition. In 1888 he obtained leave of absence to make a trip to
Following reports from explorers on the extensive grazing
England with his family and this coincided with his term of office
country of western Victoria, William Snr was quick to join the
expiring.
Port Phillip Association in 1834 and to finance the opening
The new Robertson Brothers became famous throughout Australia
up of the land around Port Phillip Bay through expeditions
for the great annual sales of shorthorn cattle. Under William Snr,
mounted by John Batman in 1835. His early land allocations
the herd had been kept perfectly pure, and in 1875 the brothers
by Batman were disallowed by the then Governor in Sydney but
began a series of annual drafts from their herd, which were
he was quick to buy land at auction near what is now known as
submitted at auction year by year and realised almost fabulous
Sunbury. Subsequently, while returning overland from a visit to his
prices. On each occasion stock-breeders flocked to Colac from all the
wife’s family near Portland in about 1840, he was so impressed by the
Australian colonies, New Zealand, and Tasmania. At one sale the prices
quality of the land around the Warrion Hills near Colac that he purchased
paid aggregated upwards of £30,000, and at another the total receipts were
large tracts around Lake Colac including a property owned by Capt Foster Fyans
£25,800. On one occasion the firm purchased from the estate of the late Richard
and its fledgling herd of cattle bearing the “FF” brand.
Morton thirty-seven prime shorthorns, known previously as the Mount Derrimut herd, for
In 1852, William Snr closed his business in Hobart to concentrate on his pastoral pursuits
£27,000, the sum of £2,500 being paid for one of the bulls: Oxford Cherry Duke. The
in western Victoria. He divided his time between Colac and Hobart and with Margaret’s
last sale of the regular series took place in 1884, and in 1885 the famous “FF” herd was
help they set about establishing “home” just outside Colac. William already owned
dispersed and the partnership dissolved. The eldest brother, John, had already died
a small homestead called Corangamorah, nicely sited on a hillside overlooking Lake
in 1876, George Pringle had moved to Europe with his family and James was largely
Colac and it was here that they ultimately built a fine mansion known as The Hill which
running the partnership on his own while William attended his parliamentary duties.
they moved into in 1862 following an extended trip to England and Scotland between
William Robertson died at Colac on 24 June 1892.
1957 and 1859 to buy stud animals for the FF herd, furniture and furnishings for the new
William and Martha’s eldest son, William St. Leonards Robertson, was also educated
mansion and to establish their sons in school, college and university.
at Oxford, and during his stay there was also in the winning crew in the annual boat
Against that background of family movements, William and Margaret’s second son
race against Cambridge. After leaving university, his friendship with one of the sons of
William was educated at the High School in Hobart, briefly at the newly established
the jewellers, Messrs. Streeter, of London, led to him spending some time at Broome,
SEPTEMBER
10
LEONARD
A LATE VICTORIAN DIAMOND PENDANT
DIAMOND PENDANT
Western District pioneer, William Robertson (in top hat), stands proudly in front of his newly constructed homestead "The Hill" near Colac c1865. Photograph courtesy of the Robertson Family archive.
From left: Connie, William St Leonards, Dolly, William, Martha, John Ernest and Beatrice. Photograph courtesy of the Robertson Family archive.
Western Australia, involved in the pearl fishing industry, but he returned to Victoria after his father died and ultimately pursued a long and distinguished career in the military. Edwin William Streeter (1834-1923) worked for Harry Emanuel before setting up on his own account in 1867/8 in Conduit Street. He moved in 1873 to Harry Emanuel’s old premises in New Bond Street where he described himself as ‘Diamond merchant, Goldsmith, Jeweller, Watchmaker’. He took a particular interest in precious stones. Although he announced his retirement in 1884 and sold off much of his stock, he did not retire but admitted partners into his business which was now restyled Streeter & Co and became a limited liability company in 1895 as Streeter & Co Ltd. By 1904 E W Streeter finally retired and the premises and goodwill were transferred to the United Investment Corporation and the remaining stock was sold at Christie’s. The research conducted concluded a strong connection between the Streeter family and the Robertson family with the Robertson’s hosting royal visits to Australia, the connection being most likely resulting from Oxford University. Edwin Streeter was a known jeweller to the royal family (Queen Victoria) and Queen Victoria was known to be great friends with Benjamin Disraeli. Somehow, it all ties in. Enquiries John D’Agata | Nation Head of Jewellery & Sydney Office Sydney (02) 9362 9045 | Melbourne (03) 8825 5605 | Mobile 0408 355 339 john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au George Streeter (centre) with members of the Robertson family on a holiday in Germany in 1887. Photograph courtesy of the Robertson Family archive.
To be offered at the Fine Jewellery Auction Monday 15th September at 6pm Lot 193 A LATE VICTORIAN DIAMOND PENDANT $40,000 - 60,000 Purportedly originally owned by the former British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli
LEONARD
11
SEPTEMBER
INAUGURAL SYDNEY AUCTION
AN ART DECO STYLE JADE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE
Sold $9,760 IBP
A D I S T I N C T LY I N T E R N AT I O N A L F L AV O U R F O R INAUGURAL SYDNEY AUCTION A distinctly international flavour dominated proceedings at the inaugural Leonard Joel Sydney auction. On Sunday afternoon at the Intercontinental Hotel, and after 95 years in the making, Leonard Joel hosted its first fine catalogue auction in Sydney. AN IMPRESSIVE SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING
The catalogue represented every category and in many ways it resembled the eclectic grand catalogues that went out of fashion when auctioneers began streamlining their
Sold $48,800 IBP
offerings – in this sense it was a visual feast and a satisfyingly diverse sale. Sydney clients entrusted Leonard Joel with the sale of important jewellery, rare objects and interesting international art. The auction began sensationally when lot 4, a French silver box by Jean Emile Puiforcat with an estimate of $3,000, realised a staggering $19,520 (IBP). Connoisseur collecting continued when a Grand Tour Victorian specimen table, lot 11, sold for $21,960 (IBP) and an extremely rare Arts and Crafts enamel and silver bowl of Newcastle origin, lot 136, realised $29,280 (IBP). Asian arts continued its stellar run with a pair of 19th century rosewood inlaid chairs, lot 178, that more than quadrupled their estimate to sell for $7,320 (IBP) and the theme continued when an exquisite green jade and diamond necklace, lot 373, sold for $9,760 (IBP). Other fine jewellery highlights included an impressive sapphire and diamond ring, lot 361, that realised $48,800 (IBP) - the superb oval cut centre blue sapphire weighed more than 5 carats and combined with its intense blue colouring truly dazzled bidders. While only a small collection of international art was on offer, lot 65, a monumental bronze bust of Beethoven by the French artist Emile Antoine Bourdelle, more than doubled its low estimate and realised $43,920 (IBP). John D’Agata, Head of Sydney Office, commented: “We are delighted with the result; we budgeted modestly. We are here for the long haul and we would have been happy with a $400,000 auction. We have already surpassed the half million dollar mark and we are honestly in celebration. I’m thrilled that Sydney has supported us in this fashion and I really look forward to developing our full service expertise in NSW.” Enquiries Sydney (02) 9362 9045 | Melbourne (03) 8825 5605 | Mobile 0408 355 339
ÉMILE ANTOINE BOURDELLE (French, 1861-1929) CIRCA 1925
john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au
Sold $43,920 IBP
John D’Agata | Nation Head of Jewellery & Sydney Office
Now consigning JEWELS & OBJETS D’ART for AUCTION 16 NOVEMBER 2014 SEPTEMBER
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LEONARD
INAUGURAL SYDNEY AUCTION
JEAN EMILE PUIFORCAT 1897-1945, LARGE FRENCH SILVER BOX, PARIS CIRCA 1925
Sold $19,520 IBP
A SILVER AND ENAMEL BOWL
Sold $29,280 IBP
A FINE, EARLY VICTORIAN, MICRO MOSIAC AND SPECIMIN MARBLE TOPPED CENTRE TABLE, CIRCA 1840
Sold $21,960 IBP
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SEPTEMBER
FINE JEWELLERY
21 A TRIO OF RINGS BY TIFFANY & CO $1,000 - 1,500
FINE JEWELLERY PREVIEW
30 A GOLD PENDANT BY BULGARI $1,400 - 2,000
One should never underestimate the calibre of jewellery items that may present themselves on the Australian market. To consign an original piece of antique jewellery in its original box is always exciting. When that box is applied with a personally inscribed plaque with links to Australian and British historical figures it makes it all the more interesting. Would the Jewellers ‘Streeter & Co’ have ever imagined that one of their finest creations would end up in a Fine Jewellery auction at Leonard Joel in Australia in the year 2014? Probably not! The beautiful briolette pendant necklace, lot 193 in our auction, has the same ‘wow’ factor today as it did more than one hundred years ago when it was created. No mean feat and a compliment to the firm that ceased operation early last century. I was totally blown away when it was handed to me for the first time. Before I
27 A PAIR OF DIAMOND EARRINGS BY TIFFANY & CO $1,200 - 1,800
even opened the box I knew that I was going to see something special. Never taking anything for granted, I was flattered that our vendor chose Leonard Joel and trusted our long history of selling rare jewels. It is in good company amongst the wonderful collection of jewellery presented in this catalogue. For further information on any of these items the jewellery team and I are always happy to assist with your enquiries. We look forward to welcoming you at the viewing. John D’Agata National Head of Jewellery & Sydney Office
20 A DIAMOND BANGLE BY TIFFANY & CO $1,400 - 1,800
The Fine Jewellery Auction Monday 15 September 2014, 6.30pm
SEPTEMBER
Preview in Sydney 39 Queen Street, Woollahra Friday 5 September 2014 10am - 4pm Saturday 6 September 2014 10am - 4pm Sunday 7 September 2014 10am - 4pm
Preview in Melbourne Wednesday 10 September 2014 9am - 8pm Thursday 11 September 2014 10am - 4pm Friday 12 September 2014 10am - 4pm Saturday 13 September 2014 10am - 5pm Sunday 14 September 2014 10am - 5pm
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Enquiries John D’Agata Head of Jewellery (03) 8825 5605 / 0408 355 339 john.dagata@leonardjoel.com.au
LEONARD
FINE JEWELLERY
96 A DIAMOND RING $40,000 - 50,000
102 A PINK DIAMOND RING $30,000 - 40,000
200 A BLUE DIAMOND RING $12,000 - 16,000 224 AN IMPRESSIVE DIAMOND RING BY PAUL BRAM $100,000 - 120,000
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SEPTEMBER
CLASSIC FURNITURE & OBJECTS
Classic Furniture & Objects AUCTION S U N D AY 2 6 O ctober at 1 2 P M
A. Testi (XIX-XX, Italian) Cleopatra Carrara marble, raised on a verde antico marble plinth, incised signatures A. Testi verso and Galerie P. Bazzanti, Florence, the figure 87 cm high; the plinth 100.5cm high $120,000 - $180,000
SEPTEMBER
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CLASSIC FURNITURE & OBJECTS
An impressive matched set of four patinated iron Nubian figures on stands each naturalistically modelled, holding aloft a torchere, (one figure missing the torchere), the figures measuring 133-142cm high; each pedestal 103cm high $50,000 - $75,000
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SEPTEMBER
VINTAGE INTERIORS
VINTAGE INTERIORS LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES, FIRST EDITION, SIGNED BY KAMIL GIZYCKI (1893-1968) $500 - 700
BOOKS & EPHEMERA WANTED FOR AUCTION
LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES, FIRST EDITION, SIGNED BY KAMIL GIZYCKI (1893-1968) $500 - 700
LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES, FIRST EDITION, SIGNED BY KAMIL GIZYCKI (1893-1968) $500 - 700
CAMERAS & PHOTOGRAPHY
AUSTRALIAN & THE PACIFIC
AUCTION THURSDAY 25 September at 12pm
WANTED FOR AUCTION
Enquiries
Enquiries
Chiara Curcio, Specialist Classic Furniture & Objects and Books & Manuscripts
Sasa Mitic, Objects, Books & Collectibles Manager
(03) 8825 5635 | chiara.curcio@leonardjoel.com.au
(03) 8825 5604 | sasa.mitic@leonardjoel.com.au
SEPTEMBER
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MODERN DESIGN
MODERN DESIGN WANTED FOR AUCTION Schulim Krimper, Grant Featherston, Clement Meadmore, Mid-Century Textiles & Objects
GRANT FEATHERSTON (AUSTRALIAN,1922-1995) R160 CONTOUR ARMCHAIR AND FOOTSTOOL
Sold $5,124 IBP
Enquiries Anna Grassham, Modern Design Specialist & Vintage Interiors Manager (03) 8825 5614 / anna.grassham@leonardjoel.com.au
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SEPTEMBER
COLLECTIBLES ENTRIES INVITED
ENTRIES INVITED COLLECTIBLES INCLUDING MOVIE POSTERS G iles M oon D iscusses five of his favourite C ollectibles sold at L eonard J oel
A rare Pre-war Trade Box for six Dinky 28/1 Delivery Vans – sold for $14,400 IBP. These early promotional diecast models were produced by English firm Dinky in the late 1930s and advertised famous brands such as Kodak and Oxo. When the models were produced Dinky encountered problems with casting which often caused these models to fatigue and fracture. Collectors are therefore willing to pay premium prices for any examples in good condition.
An Autographed Press Reception Invitation for the Beatles’ 1964 Australian Tour - sold for $12,000 IBP, 2011.
The Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund Sword of 50 Pound Value to Lieutenant Charlies Menzies of H.M.S. Minerva/1806 - sold for $91,500.
Beatles autographs are highly prized by collectors, even more so when they are connected to a particular event. This set was obtained by the private secretary to the Australian High Commissioner in London. Although he apparently disapproved of the group he acquired the signatures for his 16 year old daughter who was a huge fan but was not allowed to attend the event.
This spectacular sword was presented to Lt. Menzies in recognition of his acts of bravery fighting in the Napoleonic Wars. He is, in fact, better known in Australia, for founding a settlement in NSW with a group of convicts which became Newcastle.
An exceptionally rare Airzone Symphony Leader with a unique marbelised white and brown case - sold for $26,400 IBP in 2010.
An Important Live Steam Model of the Charlotte Dundas – the first navigable steam ship - sold for $84,000 IBP in 2014.
This colour was never put into production and this is the only known example. It is possibly a one-off factory sample. This radio was the highlight of a remarkable private collection of more than 500 predominantly Australian and American radios that was sold in 2 parts in 2010 and 2011.
The Charlotte Dundas was built under the direction of William Symington and successfully pulled 2 laden vessels on a Scottish canal in 1803. The model is believed to have been constructed from timbers taken from the actual ship after it was scrapped in the 1860s
Enquiries Giles Moon, Consultant 0439 493 038 giles.moon@leonardjoel.com.au
SEPTEMBER
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VauLT
NEW ART & CULTURE MAGAZINE
ART COLLECTOR: THEODORE WOHNG Having amassed an extensive collection that traverses Australian and international visual art, architecture, literature, music and contemporary fashion, collector Theodore Wohng’s archive is built around the premise of intense respect for artists and strong beliefs surrounding a collector’s obligations to both artists and the public. By Pippa Milne Theodore Wohng only wears black. His straight, hip-length hair blends into swathes of dark cloth and he tells me that as he ages – as his hair gradually turns white – he will start to introduce grey and then white into his wardrobe.
ISSUE 7 OUT NOW FEATURING: ELAD LASSRY, FIONA CONNOR, LITTLEWHITEHEAD, SARAH CONTOS, SANGEETA SANDRASEGAR, G-STAR, JULIE ANNE QUAY, HUBERT DUPRAT, OSCAR KEY SUNG, SEAN BAILEY & MORE
SUBSCRIBE NOW VAULTART.COM.AU
LEoNARD
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Wohng, a trained composer, has amassed works by a litany of artists, designers, composers and architects spanning any number of genres and eras. But despite its multiplicity, his collection is underpinned by an unspoken thematic thrust. Almost all the works drill into the darkness of humanity and the strange beauty that is inherent in such a state, creating a spectral and labyrinthine portrait of the human condition. The collection comprises more than 300 works, including prints and sketches by Odilon Redon, Goya, Louise Bourgeois, Dorothea Tanning, photographs by Sophie Calle, architectural models by Rem Koolhaas and manuscripts by John Cage. Recently, Wohng has been drawn into the public side of the art world, following years of conscious discretion. He is a member of the China Art Foundation and is an ambassador for this year’s Melbourne Art Fair. In his own creative practice, he has collaborated with artist Brook Andrew on the film work De Anima for The Cinemas Project, which debuted at Bendigo Art Gallery in April. He also has plans to explore his extensive collection through a series of exhibitions within his apartment, the first of which will proffer his collection of Redon Noirs – the third largest holding of its kind after MoMA and the Fitzwilliam Museum Cambridge. Read the full article in Issue 7 of Vault Magazine, Out Now
SEPTEMBER
COLLECTIBLES INCLUDING MILITARIA A U C T I O N T H U R S D AY 2 5 S eptember at 1 . 3 0 pm
Part THE HIGHLY IMPORTANT GALLIPOLI D.S.O. GROUP OF SIX AND DIARY OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL ROBERT RANKINE 14 BN. A.I.F.
Sold $36,600 IBP
leonardjoel.com.au Melbourne Head Office 333 Malvern Road South Yarra VIC 3141 Australia t. 03 9826 4333 f. 03 9826 4544
Sydney 39 Queen Street Woollahra NSW 2025 Australia t. 02 9362 9045 f. 03 9826 4544