height (larger): 30 1/2 inches
width (larger): 12 inches
the smaller one is thermoluminescence dated, the result of Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art, Oxford University thermoluminescence test no. 866g30 is consistent with the dating of this lot
Estimate: $6,000 - $8,000
each figure in a strong stance with arm outstretched and hand clasped, originally grasping a spear or weapon, with one raised leg resting on a recumbent bull, each face finely detailed with black and red pigments, and the armor colored with patterned sancai green, cream and amber glaze
From the Private Collection of Joseph Rondina
overall good condition, some wear to glaze and minor glaze defects
Joseph Rondina was born into a first-generation Florentine American family in Auburn, upstate New York. He attended Auburn schools, graduated from Manlius Military Academy, and served in World War II with the U.S. Army Occupation Forces stationed
in Berlin.
Returning to the U.S. at the end of the war with a renewed appreciation of art and history, as well as a continental approach to decorating, he graduated from the Whitman School of Design in New York City. He opened Joseph Rondina Antiques in 1957 on East 62 Street at Madison Avenue, taking over the existing premises of Williams-Michelsen. With his instinctive eye for elegance and refinement, it was not long before his establishment was the go-to destination for European aristocracy, scions of industry, notables of the social register and café society from the U.S. and abroad.
His interests focused primarily on European 18th century decorative arts and furniture, over time developing to include Chinese, Korean, Indian, Siamese, Cambodian, Persian and Japanese, bringing a more esoteric and exotic style to the market. With his sensitivity to changes in taste, he captured the mood of the period and knew exactly what was appropriate for the time. It would bring him enormous pleasure to see his collection enjoyed by the next set of owners. The selection of furniture and objects in this catalogue tell a story of an intensely private individual and give an insight into an extraordinary life well-lived.
Don McNair
(excerpt from The Private Collection of Joseph Rondina catalogue)
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