LEÓN Gallery has assembled a strong collection of pieces from key advocates and practitioners of the Philippine Modernist movement for its exhibition, “A Masterful Mix: Hermes & The Masters of Philippine Modern Art,” pitting them against exquisite Hermes pieces from the collection of Authentecite Inc.

Exhibition will run on April 30-May 6 at G/F Corinthian Plaza, Paseo de Roxas, Legazpi Village, Makati City. It is curated by Jing Palad.

According to León Gallery director Jaime Ponce de León, the exhibit is centered around the groundbreaking contribution of the masters of modern art in the Philippines.

“We will be presenting key artistic expressions that changed the nature of Philippine art,” explained Ponce de León, “from a realistic style of painting to what is presently a more diverse manner of presenting subjects, from an idealistic perspective to a more encompassing one, where the reality the country was experiencing at the time was just as important.”

One of the most important pieces in the exhibit is the “Saeta XXVII” by Fernando Zobel. This work from 1957 is part of Zobel’s series “Saeta,” where he painted these iconic lines with the use of a syringe. This piece was part of a major exhibition on Zobel by the Philippine Art Gallery in 1957.

“VIEW of Manila,” by Federico Aguilar Alcuaz

Another important piece in the collection is Federico Aguilar Alcuaz’s “View of Manila”—a large, imposing oil-on-wood painting. This work is from his famous landscape series. Aguilar Alcuaz was formally conferred the National Artist Award last April 14 by President Aquino.

Also of significance is Vicente Manansala’s “Prayer Before Meal,” a quintessential Cubist painting, which the artist is famous for, recasting it in his inimitable style of “transparent Cubism.”

Léon is partnering for the second time with Authentecite Inc.

“We feel that in the luxury industry, the Hermes brand is synonymous with outstanding craftsmanship and a leader in leather goods design,” Ponce de León said. “Their products carry a level of prestige that our clientele desires.”

Along with Authenticite Inc. of Dennis Robles, the country’s leading auction house has also partnered with jeweler Janina Dizon, owner of Janina by Jul Dizon.

“For this trunk show, I would like to focus on my summer collection of jewels using citrusy fresh hues to complement the season,” Dizon said. “I will also showcase vintage jewelry finds I’ve sourced through the years.”

Ponce de León said that interior designer Rocky Robins, owner of La Maison Deco, would showcase high-end home décor pieces from Italian brand, Fornasetti.

“Robins sources internationally for some of the most desirable home accessories, and we’re so thrilled to have access, through his company, to Fornasetti’s much coveted and highly collectible plates,” Ponce de León said. “He’s also bringing in other items from the brand such as scented candles and coasters.”

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