Clars Auctions is proud to present its May 15th Gallery Auction, distinguished by a commanding Important Fine Art section that will lead the sale.

This premier opening segment brings together an exceptional and thoughtfully curated group of works spanning American, European, and contemporary art, now further enriched by the inclusion of works by Raimonds Staprans, one of the foremost representatives of post-war California painting nationwide, and Fernando C. Amorsolo, one of the most celebrated figures in Philippine art, underscoring Clars’ continued strength in presenting high-caliber, globally significant fine art to the market.

A major highlight of the sale is La Lavandera (1937) by Fernando Amorsolo (Filipino, 1892–1972), an exceptional oil on board measuring 13 x 17 inches, estimated at $80,000–$120,000. Exemplifying Amorsolo’s masterful handling of light and his iconic depictions of rural Philippine life, this work stands as a rare and significant offering within the auction’s international fine art selection.

Further reinforcing the strength of the Important Fine Art section are standout works such as An Old Street in Taos by Joseph Henry Sharp, estimated at $40,000–$60,000; and a rare four panel Monterey Cypress mural by Chiura Obata, estimated at $15,000–$25,000.

Collectors will also find notable examples by Julian Alden Weir, Leon Dabo, and Eustace Paul Ziegler, alongside important modern and contemporary voices including Christopher Brown, Bruce Nauman, and Gregory Crewdson.

The depth of the fine art offering continues with works connected to Pablo Picasso, including an etching from La Suite Vollard and a tapestry after Jacqueline.

Significant California and American artists are well represented, with works by Granville Redmond, Maynard Dixon, Edward Potthast, and Wayne Thiebaud. Additional highlights include a bronze relief by Ruth Asawa, a sculptural work by Anne and Patrick Poirier, and contemporary pieces by Ben Quinn and Marcel Dzama — further demonstrating the breadth and quality of this leading section.

Louis Comfort Tiffany was a prolific American designer whose career spanned from the 1870s–1920s. While he was most well known for his stained glass, he produced pieces in a variety of mediums, including pottery, metalwork, and lighting.

At the close of the 19th century, Louis Comfort Tiffany first developed Favrile glass. Deeply impressed from a recent trip to Europe in the 1860s, Tiffany drew inspiration from Roman and Syrian glass making. After much experimenting, Tiffany’s technique of ingraining color within the glass set it apart from other types of iridescent glass, resulting in the beautiful distinctive hues of Favrile glass.

Tiffany was also largely inspired by nature – he was captivated by the array of lush colors of flowers and plants. This attraction to color also contributed to the brilliant shades featured in Favrile glass objects.

Tiffany went on to win a grand prize at the 1900 Paris Exposition (the World’s Fair), for his Favrile glass. Later, he began producing lamps and large stained-glass Favrile pieces, cementing himself as one of the most influential figures in the Art Nouveau style through to the Arts and Crafts period.