Works by Amorsolo, Ventura, Botong in Leon Gallery auction

MANILA, Philippines - For its forthcoming Spectacular Mid-Year auction to be held on June 29, 11 a.m., at the AIM Conference Center, Leon Gallery assembles an impressive suite of Philippine art.

Two works by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo top-bill the lots up for bid. The first is an oil-on-canvas piece from 1920 titled “Naguilian Trail”; the other is another rarefied work of art from 1935 titled   “Sabungeros.” Taking prominence is this auction is the Nikki Coseteng collection consisting of, in part, pieces by Ang Kiukok (“Seated Figure” tempera on paper, 1978), Romulo Olazo (“Diaphanous,” oil on canvas, 1975) and H.R. Ocampo (“Abstract Composition I” and “Abstract Composition II” both from 1974). “Facing the Mirror” is a work by Ronald Ventura dated 2013, which was on the cover of a 2012 issue of Flash Art Magazine.

Perhaps the pièce de résistance among the auction lots is “Second Station of the Cross, Jesus Accepts the the Cross” by Carlos “Botong” Francisco, master of the art of the mural. This moving and powerful oil-on-canvas work from 1960 is part of a series that was commissioned by the Salesians for the Don Bosco Chapel that has remained away from public view for decades.

Leon Gallery is at G/F Corinthian Plaza, 121 Paseo de Roxas, Legaspi Village, Makati City. For information, call 846-7416 or visit www.leon-gallery.com.