T he galleries at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre were brimming with excitement, as special guests previewed the spectacular lineup of works by Modern and Contemporary artists, including Sanyu’s alluring nude masterpiece Quatre nus and the first major painting by David Hockney to appear at auction in Asia, 30 Sunflowers. The auction series kicked off with two exceptional single-owner wine sales, The Summit: A Complete Cellar as well as Magnificent Bordeaux from the Cellar of Sir Dickson Poon. Among the many highlights of the week are exceptional Chinese works of art and Chinese paintings, plus a dazzling selection of jewellery and watches which will go under the hammer this season.
Catching the eye of Susanna Lee, Country Manager, Hong Kong & Taiwan and General Manager, Insurance Asia, American Express, was a breathtaking "imperial jade" necklace composed of 37 jadeite beads of highly translucent brilliant emerald green colour, clasp set with a cabochon ruby and single-cut diamonds. Asked why this was her favourite among the many extraordinary lots on display, she said. "I have always had a special affection for jadeite. It symbolize blessings, peacefulness as well as protection. It is revered in China, with a cultural significance that dates back thousands of years and a value that was cemented by China's Qing dynasty emperors, who prized it for its purity."
"This extraordinary jadeite bead and diamond necklace has a rich green hue, high translucency 'as if it contains water inside.' This is a truly remarkable piece with beads of a uniform size with such high quality."
"I don’t buy jewellery, I collect," Susanna Lee said of her personal love of fine jewellery. "To me, each is a masterpiece. It’s not all about value but the craftsmanship and story behind. What always works for me are pieces that spark 'love at first sight,' which is the best way to connect to your own jewellery."
Guests to the preview got a glimpse of a spectacular assemblage of masterpieces which will be presented during the week, many of which will be sure to turn heads and all of which represent the pinnacle of creativity and craftsmanship – from Modern and Contemporary Art, Modern and Contemporary Southeast Asian Art, Chinese Paintings, Chinese Works of Art, Watches, and Jewellery.
"Sotheby’s has a long history of bringing extraordinary masterpieces around the world to collectors. The specialists are very professional, and they always surprise me with their lineup at auctions and private sales."
See the works on exhibit at the Hong Kong Spring Sales preview in partnership with American Express Centurion.
