One of the many privileges of representing an auction house such as Leonard Joel is the diversity of people and objects that one encounters. Every day brings some new and exciting object to light, often with a fascinating owner who would like us to find the next custodian for their treasured object.
Sometimes, as fate or fortune would have it, different vendors bring highly complementary objects, which assists us greatly in creating a theme within a sale. One such vendor contacted me some weeks ago with a beautifully rendered work retaining excellent colouration by Rex Battarbee (1893-1973). To collectors of Hermannsburg school works he needs no introduction, being most known for his tutelage of the brilliant Albert Namatjira as well as the encouragement and guidance of the broader Hermannsburg school. This work was Lot 61 in our Fine Art sale held in Melbourne on the 23rd of November.
(1902-1959)
Mereenie Bluff Range 1938
watercolour and pencil on paper
25 x 35cm
$25,000-30,000
Only two weeks later, a gentleman contacted us about his extensive collection of Hermannsburg works, collected over many years in the Northern Territory. Over the course of listing the works, one did gain a fascinating insight into life in the Territory. Included in this important collection are three works by Albert Namatjira, dated 1938, 1940 and 1952 respectively, which were also consigned to the November Fine Art auction. This suite of works not only complement each other, but importantly illustrate the relationship between the two artists and the evolution of Albert Namatjira’s work.
If you would like assistance with buying or selling art, antiques, jewellery, modern design, luxury or the diverse
or interesting, please call me on 0419 838 841 or email anthony.hurl@leonardjoel.com.au
Anthony Hurl / South Australia Representative Specialist
November 2021
Banner Image: ALBERT NAMATJIRA (1902-1959) Mereenie Bluff Range 1938, watercolour and pencil on paper, 25 x 35cm. $25,000-30,000