Insider Spotlight
While art collectors are already buzzing over the homecoming of Félix Martínez’s “La Jota Manileña” (1886), the auction’s antiques and relics section delivers an equally captivating narrative, spotlighting rare pieces that reflect the Philippines’ layered cultural and spiritual identity.
The big picture: Ancestral craftsmanship resurfaces
This year’s furniture selection stands out for its provenance and artistry. Leading the roster is a magnificent Rococo-style double-entry butterfly door, crafted in the third quarter of the 19th century in Paete, Laguna.
Standing at more than three meters, it features chinoiserie details and Philippine orchid motifs—an imposing architectural treasure from the historic Suiza-Cometa ancestral home in Nagcarlan, Laguna, descended from Andres Suiza, Gobernadorcillo in 1884–85.
Another highlight is a finely crafted Ah Tay lyre-back corner chair from the Araneta-Zaragoza collection—owners of the famed Hidalgo Street “Quiapo house”—a quintessential example of the elegance associated with Ah Tay’s renowned workshop.
Spirituality, protection, and devotion
Devotional objects add depth to the sale’s cultural dimension. A “Kankanaey onob” (rice granary door) bears an anthropomorphic guardian figure with outstretched arms symbolizing ancestral protection.
An impressive Lagawe seated bulul, dating to the late 19th century and formerly owned by cultural scholar Floy Quintos, further enriches the collection.
Ecclesiastical pieces shine: a late 18th-century Bicol “Patrocinio de San Jose” de tallado tableau; a “La Purisima Concepcion” with ivory features from Bohol; a 19th-century Manila gilt-silver del fuego chalice and paten; and a rare solid-ivory “Inmaculada Concepcion” with the distinct suksok waist tuck on a Rococo base.
Zoom out: Echoes of trade and warrior traditions
Rounding out the offering is a Maranao danganan sword hilt from the early 1900s and a scarce lot of six pre-colonial piloncitos, used between the 9th and 12th centuries in Tondo, Namayan, and Butuan. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
Salcedo Auctions presents “Under the Tree: Wish List“ with exclusive bank partner UnionBank Elite on Nov. 29, 2025, with a 10 a.m. morning online sale and a 2 p.m. hybrid afternoon sale at NEX Tower, Makati. View the catalogue and register at salcedoauctions.com.
