Painting of Fernando Amorsolo Sold for P57M
UNDER THE MANGO TREE – The painting of Fernando Amorsolo has set a new record by selling for PHP 57,676,800 at The Magnificent September Auction 2024, held by Leon Gallery.
Fernando Amorsolo was a prominent Filipino painter renowned for his rural landscapes and portraits. Known as the “Grand Old Man of Philippine Art,” he was the first to be honored as National Artist of the Philippines in 1972. Amorsolo’s work is celebrated for its use of light and color, particularly his impressionistic techniques and backlighting, which contributed significantly to Philippine art and national identity.
Born in Manila, Amorsolo studied at the University of the Philippines and later in Spain, where he was influenced by European artists. His early successes included awards for his paintings and illustrations. He was renowned for his depictions of Filipino life, capturing traditional customs and landscapes with a unique glow and vibrancy.
Throughout his career, Amorsolo was prolific, producing an estimated 10,000 works. His paintings often portrayed serene rural scenes and historical events, including the effects of World War II on the Philippines. Despite some criticism of his commercial success, his artistic contributions are widely recognized, and his works continue to be highly valued. The Fernando C. Amorsolo Art Foundation was established to preserve his legacy, and his paintings regularly fetch high prices at auctions.
Meanwhile, Fernando Amorsolo’s painting “Under the Mango Tree” has set a new record by selling for PHP 57,676,800 at The Magnificent September Auction 2024, held by Leon Gallery. This sale surpasses the previous record set by Amorsolo’s 1931 painting “Mango Gatherers,” which sold for PHP 46,720,000 in 2018. The 1929 painting, which was sold for a record-breaking amount, was part of the collection of Edward J. Nell, an industrialist known as the Father of Philippine Air-conditioning. The Leon Gallery’s announcement on Facebook celebrated the achievement, highlighting the significance of this record-setting sale.