The auction house also serves as a venue for exhibitions by artists in between auctions. (Photo by IVAN LLANETA)

Auctions are not exactly an integral part of the local art scene.  The reasons for this are of course manifold and probably reflect to some degree how Filipinos and foreign art lovers alike view the importance of Philippine artists.  This is ironic of course, considering that local artists sell well in foreign auction houses with names like Luna, Amorsolo, and Magsaysay-Ho even setting records of sorts with regards to the value of their works.

Fortunately, the situation is about to change.  This is because a group of art lovers have decided to put up the first-ever local auction house that will, according to their own estimation, “specialize in the sale of fine art, jewelry, decorative arts, and collectible accessories” to a growing market increasingly knowledgeable in art and design trends.

In fact, Salcedo Auctions’ (Three Salcedo Place, Salcedo Village, Makati City) daring venture may even be timely considering the subtle, barely noticeable but ground-breaking shifts that the local art market is experiencing at present.  According to Karen Kua-Lerma, the president of Salcedo Auctions, the art market—at least in Metro Manila—seems to be changing locales anew with regards to its center.  This is one of the reasons why they decided to put up the auction house’s premises in Salcedo Village in the first place. This area, she explains, is experiencing an art-related boom of sorts.

Of course, Karen and Salcedo Auctions vice president Miguel Robles know whereof they speak.  Both are art lovers with backgrounds in art and design.

As of this writing, Salcedo Auctions as a business entity has just operated for about a week or so, but the local auction house is already busy preparing for its initial auction dubbed “The Well-Appointed Life:  Philippine Art + Objects of Desire,” on July 24 at the Mandarin Oriental.

This is not the first-time they conducted an auction locally though. “We actually had a pre-launch of Edades paintings at Rockwell,” says Miguel, noting that out of the 10 artworks on auction, seven paintings were actually sold.

However, the upcoming auction will be much larger. “We have 90 lots, featuring 52 Filipino artists, one international artist, and the rest a combination of jewelry and other artworks,” says Karen.

Karen and Miguel agree that several pieces will most likely stand out.  Notable among these is an original plaster sculpture of Filipino artist Isabelo Tampingco called “La Mujer en Reposo,” which is probably one of the most expensive items up for auction. 

Other items receiving much interest include a vintage Hermes Piano handbag (“It is in very good condition,” says Karen, noting that it also comes in a presentation box), while jewelry connoisseurs, on the other hand, might be tempted by a 10.12 carat diamond ring (with round-brilliant and marquise diamonds surrounding the triangular cut main diamond) and a 22 carat emerald and diamond brooch. 

Those wishing to spruce up their interiors with antique furnishings may likewise choose from several Chinese-furniture as well (e.g. armoire, buffet cabinet, and wedding cabinet). All the said items are in mint condition and still have their brass locks and fittings intact.

Those who might not be able to make it for the auction on July 24 can rest assured though that more auctions are scheduled.  “The auctions will happen on a regular basis,” says Miguel, adding that they will have auctions every two months, interspersed with exhibitions by artists at their Salcedo Village premises.

Like their international counterparts, Salcedo Auctions will likewise have themed auctions with one already set for September 25 of this year.  Dubbed “Ilustrado Home + Modern Decorator”, the said event will feature furniture and home accessories just in time before the start of the holidays.

At present, Karen seems very pleased with the prospects of Salcedo Auctions creating a special niche for itself.  “Setting this up entailed a lot of hard work,” she says, “So far, it’s paying off as people see the potential and need for it.  It’s very exciting and it’s good to finally be able to showcase what our country has to offer without going overseas.”

For more information about Salcedo Auctions log on to www.salcedoauctions.com.