NO RESERVE: 20th Century, A mixed lot of glass and porcelain

Our Valentine’s Day Sale makes for an eclectic auction, representing the distinctive style for which Sloane Street Auctions has come to be known. Highlights of the Old Masters include attributions to el Greco, Veronese and the Bibiena family; a stunning panel by the Master of Monte Oliveto (active 1305-1335) comes alongside an outstanding portrait by Martin de Vos (1532-1603).

These stand in stark contrast to the Mod British works that permeate the sale, produced by the greatest artists of their generation. The likes of Samuel Peploe, Craigie Aitchison, Duncan Grant, John Piper and Frank Dobson, are all to come up for sale on the 14th February, many with stellar provenance. A charming selection of Orientalist pictures bring even more colour to the sale, lead by artists William James Müller, Charles Doussault, Eugène Girardet and Vernet, each one pioneering the nuances and charm of the genre in their own right.

The Orientalist flavour is complimented by strong Islamic offerings. A 16th century arrangement of Iznik tiles in an unusual carved frame surround epitomise the characteristic Islamic style. Offering an insight into the romanticism of this delightful world is a beautifully serene portrait of a young Moroccan girl by the renowned Philip Alexius László de Lombos, which round off the Islamic subject matter.

Of a similar sensitivity is a remarkable work attributed to the British Glyn Philpot RA. Depicting a man of African descent, this evocative profile study typifies the artist’s later interest in figures outside the exclusive bounds of upper society, as he moved away from the Caucasian society élites he had once made his living from. Another portrait of note is that of Sir Richard Francis Burton, attributed to Lord Frederic Leighton after his work in the same vein now hanging in the National Portrait Gallery.

Again, the sale presents 97 lots of jewellery, including a particularly special tanzanite ring, set in a diamond cluster surround, as well as two early Patek Phillippe watches. An important selection of rare and early intaglio rings comes from an important private collection, which make for an interesting juxtaposition with two impressive Hèrmes handbags, which include a 1950s crocodile Kelly and striking blue Birkin. Perfect for Valentine’s Day.

It would also be hard to ignore the four Cecil Beaton photographs which come to us from an outstanding aristocratic collection. Depicting Wallis Simpson, Audrey Hepburn, Henry Beerbohm, and W. H. Auden, these rare images of 20thCentury icons include 1/1 prints that came direct from the artist’s studio to Sotheby’s, where purchased by the father of the present owner. They are not only visually striking but historically important. 10 costume designs by Beaton also come up for sale from another important collection, and together illustrate the breadth of Beaton’s talents.

Sculpture showcases a selection from the 60’s. Henry Moore’s Standing Figure 1965, cast in 1968, Rosenthal’s maquette for Sun Disc 1969 as well as the three works by the understated William Black, student of John Tunnard. These are sold alongside some exquisite 16th century Flemish works in the round while Andrea della Robbia exemplifies the best of the 15th century.

We remain extremely grateful to our vendors who by refining their collections have allowed us access to the beautiful and the unique.