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14th Century Vajradhara Figurine Sells for €4.16 Million as Speelman Collection of Ancient Himalayan Art Achieves €15.2 Million at Auction
In a spectacular display of auction prowess, the Jules Speelman Collection garnered a total of €15.2 million at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr in Paris, far surpassing its pre-sale estimate of €4.2 million. The auction, consisting of 28 exquisite lots, was 93% sold by lot and 100% by value, underscoring the intense demand for Asian Art and Buddhist Sculpture curated over 60 years by the esteemed dealer and collector, Jules Speelman.
The highlight of the auction was a gilt copper alloy figure of the Vajradhara from Nepal’s early Malla Period, dating back to the 14th century. This remarkable piece sold for an astounding €4,162,400, far exceeding its pre-sale estimate of €600,000 to €800,000.
With these impressive results, Bonhams has firmly cemented its dominance in the Himalayan art market, achieving a global total of €20 million for 2024.
The auction room was buzzing with activity as buyers competed both in person and over the phone for the rare and meticulously collected items, resulting in four lots each achieving prices above €1 million.
Asaph Hyman, Global Head of Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art at Bonhams, remarked on the success: “Following a tour in Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Switzerland, this extraordinary sale celebrating a lifetime’s experience, expertise, and devotion, achieved historical results. Jules Speelman is one of the greatest and most respected dealers and collectors of Chinese and Asian works of art. He is renowned for his exceptional eye for both rarity and quality, as was demonstrated by the immense enthusiasm for the collection from collectors worldwide.”
Edward Wilkinson, Global Head of Himalayan & Southeast Asian Art, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Jules Speelman’s eye for quality and dedication to Himalayan Art over the past 50 years has been recognized by the market. It has been an incredible honor to be entrusted with his personal collection, and it is no wonder it inspired such passionate bidding from clients around the world.”
Jules Speelman himself expressed his delight after the sale: “I was touched by how the objects I have cherished for so many years were admired by worldwide collectors. This was a very special occasion for me, and my family and I was delighted with the results. I am most grateful to all the collectors who have participated in the auction and to Bonhams team for all their great efforts.”
The auction featured several standout pieces, each achieving remarkable prices. A 17th-century parcel gilt silver and gilt copper alloy figure of the eight-armed goddess Ushnishavijaya, adorned with turquoise stones, sold for €3,920,400, well above its estimate of €600,000 to €800,000. This piece, representing a Buddhist mantra associated with longevity and favorable rebirth, exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship of Newari artisans at the Tashilunpo monastery.
Another highlight was a gilt copper alloy figure of Virupa, attributed to Sonam Gyaltsen from Central Tibet, circa 1430-50, which fetched €1,258,400 against an estimate of €150,000 to €200,000. Additionally, a gilt copper alloy figure of Shri Devi by ‘Sogyal’, likely Sonam Gyaltsen, from the 15th century Central Tibet, Densatil Monastery, circa 1431-35, sold for €1,076,900. Lastly, a silver-inlaid brass figure of Vajrapani from Central Tibet, 11th/12th century, achieved €762,400.
About Jules Speelman
Jules Speelman’s journey in the antiques trade began in 1964 when he joined his late father, Alfred, in their family business. The Speelman family has a rich history in the antiques trade, spanning three generations back to 19th century Holland and later expanding into England.
Initially, A & J Speelman dealt with a diverse range of antiques, including European ceramics, silver, tapestries, and furniture, as well as Chinese porcelain and works of art. Under Jules’s direction, the focus gradually shifted towards Asian art, and today, A & J Speelman is considered one of the foremost dealers in Asian antiques, with a particular emphasis on figurative sculpture and works of art from the past 2000 years.
The overwhelming success of the Jules Speelman Collection auction is a testament to his unparalleled eye for quality and rarity in Asian art. The extraordinary results of this auction not only celebrate Speelman’s lifetime of dedication to the field but also highlight the continued and growing appreciation for Asian and Himalayan art among collectors worldwide.
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