Step into the world of art as Global Auction returns with an extraordinary collection of 160 Southeast Asian, Chinese, Modern and Contemporary artworks. This is more than just an auction—it’s an invitation to own a piece of history. Mark your calendars: the auction runs from 19 February to 8 March 2025, culminating in a live online auction on Saturday, 8 March 2025 at 3 PM (UTC+7).

During the auction period, you can see these incredible works in person at Global Auction offices in Jakarta and Singapore, depending on where each lot is located.

Auction Highlights

From the bold strokes of Affandi to the realistic beauty of Lee Man Fong, and the inspiring nationalism that stirs the soul in the paintings of Basoeki Abdullah, this collection features some of the greatest names in the art world. Here’s a look at a few highlights:

Melasti - Hendra Gunawan

Hendra Gunawan (1918–1983) was a key figure in Indonesian modern art, known for his vivid depictions of local culture. A celebrated “people’s painter,” his works highlight Indonesia’s traditions and daily life. His art has gained international recognition, including at the Venice Biennale 2024, and is collected by prestigious museums like the Neka Art Museum and the Singapore Art Museum.

Melasti brings to life the Balinese Hindu purification ceremony before Nyepi, the Balinese New Year. The scene is filled with movement—figures in bright traditional attire carry ceremonial flags and offerings towards the sea, where waves crash against the shore. 

At the center, a black and gold Barong stands as a powerful guardian of tradition and prosperity. Gunawan’s mastery of bold colors—teals, oranges, and greens—creates an atmosphere of celebration and devotion, pulling the viewer into the energy of the ritual.

Barong - Affandi

Affandi (1918–1990) was one of Indonesia’s most revolutionary modern artists, renowned for his unconventional approach to painting. Rejecting academic realism, he developed a technique that involved squeezing paint directly from tubes onto the canvas, shaping raw emotion through intense color and movement.

A self-taught visionary, Affandi’s works were exhibited at prestigious events like the Venice Biennale and São Paulo Biennale, earning him global recognition and an honorary doctorate from the National University of Singapore.

Barong is a striking interpretation of Balinese mythology, infused with Affandi’s signature energy. The swirling, chaotic brushstrokes mirror the untamed spirit of the Barong, a lion-like guardian symbolizing protection and good fortune in Balinese culture. The figure seems almost alive, caught in motion, its presence commanding attention. With its explosive colors and restless forms, this painting is a testament to Affandi’s ability to translate mythology into raw, visceral art.

Jukung Boat (Perahu Jukung), 1962  - Affandi

Another remarkable work by Affandi featured in this auction is Perahu Jukung (Jukung Boat), a vibrant and dynamic interpretation of Indonesia’s traditional fishing boats. Affandi’s signature technique of applying paint directly onto the canvas creates a sense of movement, as if the boat is drifting on turbulent waters. The curved bow forms an almost human-like expression, adding an unexpected surreal touch that brings the vessel to life.

A radiant yellow sky dominates the background, with Affandi’s signature sun casting an almost blinding glow, intensifying the contrast with the deeper, brooding tones of the sea below. The layers of paint, applied with feverish energy, create a raw, textured surface, making the composition feel alive and in constant motion. This piece perfectly captures Affandi’s ability to transform a simple subject into an emotionally charged, visually arresting masterpiece.

Two Horses - Lee Man Fong

Lee Man Fong (1913–1988) was a master of blending Chinese ink traditions with Western realism, creating a style both refined and timeless. Born in Guangzhou, he moved to Jakarta in the 1930s and later studied in the Netherlands under a Malino scholarship (1949–1952). 

His exposure to Dutch art influenced his signature technique, which combined delicate brushwork with a sense of depth and atmosphere. As President Sukarno’s palace artist, he played a pivotal role in shaping Indonesia’s modern art landscape.

Two Horses is a stunning portrayal of grace and tranquility. One horse grazes peacefully while the other stands tall, its head turned slightly as if observing its surroundings. The background, inspired by traditional Chinese painting, is subtly faded, allowing the warm, earthy tones of the horses to stand out. 

The Struggle (Perjuangan), 1987 - Basoeki Abdullah

Basoeki Abdullah (1915–1993) was a master of realism, recognized for his historical and portrait paintings. Trained in The Hague, he gained international recognition after winning an art contest commemorating Queen Juliana of the Netherlands' accession. His reputation grew, attracting the patronage of Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno, who admired his ability to immortalize historical events and national heroes.

The Struggle (Perjuangan) is a dramatic depiction of the Battle of Surabaya (1945), a defining moment in Indonesia’s fight for independence. The scene is alive with tension—flames rise, gunfire echoes, and soldiers push forward with unwavering determination. 

At the center, Bung Tomo, a key revolutionary leader, stands tall, his raised fist rallying the people. The Indonesian flag soars above the chaos, a powerful symbol of resistance and unity. Abdullah’s meticulous attention to detail and ability to convey raw emotion turn this piece into a stirring tribute to Indonesia’s enduring fight for freedom.

Discover More & Join the Auction

See these masterpieces up close at Global Auction’s Jakarta office (Jl. Tanah Abang IV No. 23-35) from 19 February to 8 March 2025, open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The live online auction begins on 8 March 2025, at 3 PM (UTC+7). Register now at https://bid.global.auction.

For the full catalogue, visit www.global.auction or contact us at [email protected] or +6282123443854 (Paulina).