The King Collection: Celebrating the Legacy of Andrew Roy King, A Prolific Collector of Asian Art Treasures
Andrew Roy King, the former country director of IDP Philippines, is a name synonymous with passion and discernment in the world of art collecting. This upcoming auction on November 25, 2023 presents a rare opportunity to acquire pieces from his extensive collection, a testament to his lifelong journey and love affair with art.
An Australian by birth, King’s adventure in the Philippines began in the 1990s, bringing with him an insatiable curiosity and deep appreciation for Asian art. His role as the country director of IDP Education Pty Ltd since 1998 allowed him to immerse himself in the rich cultural tapestry of the region, further fueling his passion for collecting.
King’s collection is vast and varied, with a particular emphasis on Chinese works of art. His homes, both in Australia and the Philippines, served as sanctuaries for these treasures, carefully curated over decades. Today, most of his collections reside with relatives in Australia and family members in Manila, cherished reminders of his artistic legacy.
However, a selection of important works has remained in Cebu, and it is these pieces that are now being offered to discerning collectors and art enthusiasts in this highly anticipated auction. These items not only represent King’s exquisite taste but also his personal journey through Asia and his travels to countries like Egypt, adding layers of intrigue and historical context to the collection.
Among the highlights of the auction are pieces from the owl collection of his second wife, Janet Ann Shepherd, a former regional director of the World Health Organization. Her own passion for art and her distinguished career have undoubtedly contributed to the depth and diversity of King’s collection, making this auction all the more significant.
A Rare Neolithic Period (1500–1000 BCE) Jar (Guan), Xindian Culture: This exceptional artifact which is at least 3000 years old, with its lug handles and painted yoke-shaped design, is a captivating glimpse into ancient Chinese craftsmanship and the artistic legacy of the Xindian culture. This piece, with its coarse clay and thin walls, carries the indelible marks of its creation, providing a tangible connection to the Neolithic period.
A 19th Century Longquan-style Celadon Wine Pot or Ewer: This piece is a prime example of the elegant and refined celadon ware for which Longquan kilns were celebrated. The delicate pale green glaze, combined with the pot’s graceful form and intricate moulded designs, reflects the sophisticated aesthetic of Chinese celadon.
A Han Dynasty Horse Head: This terracotta horse head hails from the Han Dynasty. The piece, with its expressive features and detailed curvature, serves as a poignant reminder of China’s rich historical and artistic heritage.
The auction presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of Andrew Roy King’s legacy, a collection that embodies his passion for Asian art and his lifelong journey through its history and culture. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of art collecting, this auction offers something for everyone, a chance to connect with the past and carry forward the legacy of a man who lived and breathed art.
Join us as we celebrate the life and collection of Andrew Roy King, and take part in the continuation of his artistic journey. Don’t miss this chance to acquire a piece of history, and own a work from one of the most prolific collectors of Asian art in Cebu.
To register as a bidder, please email info@lumenaauctions.com. We accept registrations until November 23, 2023.