LONDON.- Bonhams announced the auction of a unique collection from Jules Speelman, one of the world’s leading collectors and dealers of Asian Art. Jules Speelman: Completing a Cycle, 60 Years of Devotion will launch this September at Bonhams New York, and will tour internationally in the US, Asia, and Europe, before arriving at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr in Paris for the sale in June 2024.

The auction marks the culmination of 60 years of Speelman’s devotion to Asian Art and Buddhist Sculpture. This exceptional and very personal collection includes, 28 Tibetan, Nepalese and Chinese bronze Buddhist figures and vessels from the 11th to the 18th century.

Reflecting on the sale, Jules Speelman notes, “I feel mixed emotions bringing this collection to the market but also intrigued to see what the market perceives of what I’ve put together over the years. Two things come to mind with the title of this sale, my own devotion to these pieces and the very fact that they are in themselves devotional objects which for centuries have been worshipped”.

Asaph Hyman, Global Head, Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, comments, “Jules Speelman is one of the greatest and most respected worldwide dealers in Chinese and Asian works of Art, renowned for his exceptional eye for both rarity and quality. This extraordinary collection, celebrates a lifetime’s experience, expertise, and devotion.”

Edward Wilkinson, Global Head, Himalayan & Southeast Asian Art, comments, “This collection is unparalleled in its quality with true masterpieces of Himalayan Art. The pieces exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and beauty, and it is an honour to be offering such a special collection.”

A 17th century, silver and copper alloy figure of the eight-armed goddess, Ushnishavijaya, adorned in turquoise stones will lead the sale. As a personification of a Buddhist mantra associated with longevity and favourable rebirth, the goddess is a superb example of the work of Newari craftsmen at Tashilunpo monastery.

Additional highlights from the collection include:

• A large silver-inlaid brass figure of the Vajrasatva, Tibet, 11th century, 69cm high,

• A large gilt copper alloy figure of the Vajradhara, Nepal, 14th century, 40cm high.

• A gilt copper alloy figure of Palden Lamo, Tibet, Densatil, 14th century, 38cm high.

Following the launch of the sale in New York, highlights from the collection will be toured to cities across the globe including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Beijing, Shanghai, and Taipei before arriving in Europe for the sale in June 2024.

Jules Speelman

Jules Speelman joined his late father, Alfred, in the family antiques business in 1964. The family antiques trade business stretches back three generations to 19th century Holland and expanded into England around the turn of the century. Originally, A & J Speelman dealt with antiques, from European ceramics, silver, tapestries, and furniture to Chinese porcelain, and works of art. With his father, Jules gradually shifted the focus towards Asia and under Jules Speelman’s skilled direction, A & J Speelman is now considered amongst the foremost dealers in Asian antiques, with a particular emphasis on figurative sculpture and works of art from the past 2000 years.