Lot 1 – HANS J. WEGNER ‘Papa Bear’ lounge chair and ottoman, model AP-19, ca. 1950 ©
BILLINGS is delighted to announce the Summer Modern Art + Design auction, scheduled for June 29th, 2024, commencing at 10 AM PDT. This highly anticipated sale features an impressive 375 lots, showcasing a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary American, Scandinavian, and Italian furniture, decorative arts, paintings, and sculptures.
Fine Art
Highlights of the fine art selection include two Pablo Picasso lithographs from the renowned Portraits Imaginaire series. Additionally, a fine lithograph by Joan Miró, titled ‘Le Lizard aux Plumes d’Or’ from 1971, will be on offer. The auction will also feature other notable prints by Picasso, Miró, Georges Braque, and Paul Jacoulet, offering collectors a diverse range of esteemed artworks.
Three-dimensional Fine Art
In the realm of three-dimensional fine art, the auction will present two exquisite mounted sculptures by Los Angeles-based ceramicist Adam Silverman, directly acquired from the artist. Another standout piece is an ephemeral Otto Boll floor sculpture, acquired in 2023 at the Axel Vervoordt Gallery in Hong Kong, promising to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
American Design
The American design category boasts an array of exceptional pieces, including a wonderful Arts + Crafts hall chair by Charles Rohlfs from 1901. The collection also features four Doyle Lane weed pots, each showcasing varying sizes, shapes, and glazes. Additionally, three studio-made works by Sam Maloof, including a rare set of eight dining armchairs, will be up for auction. Other noteworthy items include a polychromed ‘Chan’ coffee table by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, as well as pieces by iconic designers such as Paul Evans, Evelyn Ackerman, Charles + Ray Eames, George Nelson, and Isamu Noguchi. Collectors will also find a collection of ceramics by Mineo Mizuno, windbells by Paolo Soleri, a unique fountain by Stan Bitters, and outdoor furniture by Robert Lewis and Walter Lamb.
Danish Design and Decorative Arts
The Danish design and decorative arts category features an early ‘Papa Bear’ lounge chair and ottoman by Hans J. Wegner. Collectors will also have the opportunity to acquire vintage and contemporary lighting by Poul Henningsen, ceramics by Gunnar Nylund, and furniture by renowned designers such as Finn Juhl, Borge Mogensen, Kaare Klint, Ulla Parkdahl, and Frits Henningsen.
Lots 15, 16, 171 & 172 – DOYLE LANE Weed Pot Collection ©
Italian Design
The Italian design selection includes notable pieces by Ettore Sottsass Jr., Bruno Munari, Afra and Tobia Scarpa, Mario Bellini, and Gaetano Pesce. Each piece reflects the distinctive style and craftsmanship that Italian design is celebrated for, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of design history.
French Works
The French works category is equally impressive, featuring pieces by Charlotte Perriand, Pierre Jeanneret, Jean Prouvé, Le Corbusier, Michel Ducaroy, Pierre Chapo, and André Sornay. These items showcase the innovative and timeless designs that have made French design a cornerstone of modern aesthetics.
Luxuries and Oddities
Adding a touch of intrigue to the auction are several luxuries and oddities. Two Louis Vuitton suitcases, an elephant-shaped bidet with a hammered silver insert by Gustave Keller from 1886, a set of blackened bronze monkey candelabras, a Belgian exercise dummy, and a Baby Grand Piano in aluminum by Johan Rippen are among the unique items up for bid. Additionally, a spectacular enamel and metalwork vase by June Schwarcz and four embossed relief panels by Jasper Johns will be featured, each piece adding a unique flair to the auction.
All items are available for preview in person during the week leading up to the sale. For those who wish to experience the collection in a more social setting, a preview party will be held the night before the auction at the BILLINGS Art District warehouse in Downtown Los Angeles. Bidding options include live online, in person, via phone, or absentee, ensuring that collectors from around the world can participate in this exceptional event.
