Early 20th showcases works from the period of the 1910’s to the 1940’s and offers a glimpse into this creative period where art nouveau and art deco were the leading styles of the day. The selection is complemented by period fashions from a private collection, which are displayed along with the furniture, fine art, and accessories.

Works on offer range from beautifully carved wood frames dripping with local flora, lovely inlaid furniture, various tabletop accessories in use during the period, and genre paintings depicting visions of idyll. Highlights include a rare signed circa 1920s wood carving of a fruit vendor by Jose Caancan made in Paete, Laguna; a profusely carved round table in Narra sporting a large round top made from one slab which rests on a robust pedestal; and hard-to-find paintings by Jose Valdezco Pereira and Ramon Peralta, the former a celebrated pre-war artist who also held the position of chief artist of the Philippine Free Press, the latter known among discerning collectors for having been the art instructor of Vicente Manansala.

Other items range from a four piece salon set done in solid Kamagong, sets of dining chairs carved with art nouveau motifs, and a pair of carved and painted teakwood Indian art deco capitals. Accessories include a suite of art nouveau gem set jewelry, an amber and blue glass drinks set, and a set of pink and yellow glazed art deco plates with various work related motifs. Period portraits, genre scenes and still-lifes round up the distinctive fine art pieces on offer in this sale.

Viewing of Early 20th starts on the 14th of May, and will be complemented by a short talk relating to the period at 2pm of the same day. Bids for this silent auction will be received until the 25th of May, 2011.