Moran’s Made in Mexico sale was a resounding success

Moran’s Made in Mexico sale was a resounding success

• Tabletop treasures were the hottest items at the sale
• Fine examples from Mexican artists performed well
• Jewelry from throughout Mexico proved especially popular with buyers

MONROVIA, CA – John Moran Auctioneers’ Made in Mexico auction boasted a 95% sell-through rate, cementing the popularity of fine and decorative art from Mexico on the world stage. Robust online and phone bidding could be seen throughout the day as many pieces soared over their high estimates. A full online catalogue and remote previewing contributed to the success of the sale. Another session of Made in Mexico will be slated for early next year.

The hottest items in the sale were superb tabletop pieces from throughout Mexico. The top lot of the day was a beautifully designed set of “Amarres Disco” sterling silver flatware from beloved designer William Spratling. The timeless design soared past its $15,000 high estimate to bring $34,375 after a fierce bidding war (all prices realized include Moran’s 25% buyer’s premium). A pair of triumphantly modern candlesticks from Antonio Pineda showcases the artist’s minimalist styling and easily brought $11,250. A gorgeous silver and gem-set figure of the Virgen de Guadalupe, a symbol of Catholic Mexico, created a sensation when it hit the block. Such figures from Matl rarely come for auction which accounts for the intense bidding war that caused the figure to sail past its $2,000 high estimate to bring $25,000, the highest price paid for Matl at auction.

Wonderful art from Mexico’s leading artist captured attention at the sale. A bright and colorful untitled abstract from Rodolfo Nieto realized $15,000. A wonderfully executed portrait of a man with cap and beard from Rafael Coronel is a soulful example from the artist and sold for $4,062. An introspective carved black marble statue of a woman resting from the incomparable Felipe Castañeda unsurprisingly brought $4,063. Another eye-catching work from Rodolfo Nieto, Personaje, sold for $11,875.

Jewelry from the famed collection of Cindy Tietze-Hodosh and Stuart Hodosh once again realized robust results. A stunning gem-set dove-motif necklace from Matl was the top jewelry lot of the day, realizing $5,000. A gorgeous pair of obsidian and jade bracelets from Mexico City-based Fred Davis were one of the more popular lots heading into the sale, bringing $2,812 at the block. A delightful mixed-media “Tree of Life” brooch from William Spratling endeared itself to the buyer, who took home the gem for $2,812. A beautifully designed Hector Aguilar sterling silver and green stone bracelet sailed past its $800 estimate to bring $3,437.

Moran’s fall auction season will continue when Jewels & Luxury heads to the block on September 15th. Traditional Collector follows on September 22nd with a curated selection of classic art and furnishings. American Indian jewelry and fine Western can be found in Art of the American West on September 27th. October will hold the ever-popular 20th Century Art + Design auction. November will see the highly-anticipated California & American Fine Art auction as well as California Living. A Fine Jewelry & Timepieces as well as Luxury, Couture, & Accessories auction is planned just in time for the holidays in early December. Moran’s takes the health and safety of our staff and customers seriously, as such, all previews for the auction will be by appointment only and the sales will be held online without a live audience.

For upcoming highlights, online catalogues, and more information on these sales, visit Moran’s website: www.johnmoran.com. Bidding is now available online via Moran’s new mobile app Moran Mobile, available on both iOS and Android operating systems. Live bidding on a desktop is available through our website; bidding is also supported by telephone or absentee.

Consignment inquiries are always welcome.