In June 2025, Global Auction proudly marks its 22nd anniversary with a milestone event: Global Auction’s 22nd Anniversary Sale: Southeast Asian, Chinese, Modern and Contemporary Art. Featuring 190 lots, the auction showcases some of the region’s most well-known masters, from 19th-century and 20th century maestros to leading artists in contemporary art. The bidding period runs from 2 to 22 June, with the auction closing on 22 June 2025 in a live hybrid event at Park Hyatt Jakarta.
The auction presents rare and important works by Raden Saleh, Affandi, Lee Man Fong, Srihadi Soedarsono, Hendra Gunawan, S. Sudjojono, Basoeki Abdullah, Ahmad Sadali, Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès, and Gregorius Sidharta Soegijo, among others. From historical landscapes and realist portraits to abstract expressionism and bold contemporary statements, the sale reflects the depth and diversity of Southeast Asian art.
At the heart of the sale is Raden Saleh’s Javanese Landscape with Gunung Merapi and Horseman (1867), a monumental rediscovery and one of the most historically significant paintings to appear in recent time.
Known as the father of modern Indonesian art, Raden Saleh was the first Indonesian artist to gain recognition in Europe and played a central role in shaping the visual identity of the archipelago during the colonial period.
This landscape captures the majestic calm of Mount Merapi beneath a luminous sky, with a lone horseman traversing a wooden bridge. The painting reflects Saleh’s deep connection to the Javanese landscape, his mastery of European Romantic techniques, and his poetic sense of national identity. The work has been thoroughly examined and authenticated by leading scholar and art historian Dr. Werner Kraus, who describes it as “an extraordinary composition that encapsulates both artistic skill and cultural importance.”
Another standout is Borobudur – Moment of Contemplation (2017) by Srihadi Soedarsono, one of Indonesia’s most respected modern painters and known as master of colorist. This rare white-toned depiction of the ancient Buddhist temple radiates silence and serenity. With soft textures and a restrained palette, the painting invites the viewer into a space of reflection. It is one of only two white Borobudur works created by Srihadi in his lifetime.
The sale also features three dynamic works by Affandi, including Canna Flowers (1973), Horse Cart (1981), and Ivory Coconut Palms (1986). Using his signature finger-painting method, Affandi channels raw emotion through swirling colors and thick, energetic strokes.
Following Affandi’s raw energy, the sale offers a quieter yet equally compelling atmosphere through the works of Lee Man Fong. Known for fusing Chinese brushwork with Western oil techniques, Lee brought elegance, serenity and a timeless sense of grace to his subjects. The auction includes seven of his works, such as Portrait of a Seated Lady and Gold Fishes. Notably, the sale also features Before Departure (1940), a rare early oil painting created during his formative years. Together, these paintings trace Lee Man Fong’s journey as one of the most important modern artists in Southeast Asia.
Then there are paintings by Basoeki Abdullah, a master of refined realism. He is widely known for his portraits of world leaders, cultural icons and serene landscapes. In this sale, Beauty of Nature (1972) and Lady Wearing a Kebaya highlight his ability to capture realism with clarity and elegance.
Adding to the diversity of the sale, Hendra Gunawan’s Under the Sea showcases his signature bold colors and dynamic compositions, capturing an imaginative marine world in constant motion. Meanwhile, The Guerilla Fighter captures the spirit of Indonesia’s independence struggle with powerful energy and Hendra’s distinctive visual style.
S. Sudjojono’s Orchid and an Angel merges floral still life with mysticism and verse, embodying his role as the founder of PERSAGI (Persatuan Ahli Gambar Indonesia) and his belief in art that reveals the “visible soul.”
Also featured are spiritual abstractions by Ahmad Sadali, a key figure in the Bandung School known for blending Islamic philosophy with modernist form. His textured compositions, such as Brick Red Blocks and Remnants of Gold (1979), reflect a meditative balance between geometry, faith and material.
Aside from canvas, this auction features works on paper, including two by Belgian Impressionist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès, who spent much of his life in Bali. Using pastel and charcoal, Le Mayeur captures the grace of Balinese women in Two Balinese Maidens in a Garden and Balinese Dancer, Ni Pollok.
In addition to paintings, the auction also includes notable sculptural pieces that highlight the richness of form and material. One highlight is Eastern Goddess of Happiness (1996) by renowned Indonesian sculptor Gregorius Sidharta Soegijo. This two-meter-tall sculpture, made from painted teakwood, is one of his early works and carries a sacred, ceremonial presence that evokes indigenous and ancient spiritual figures.
International artists are represented as well, with bronze sculptures by renowned figures such as Li Chen and Ju Ming, whose works continue to shape the global landscape of contemporary sculpture.
According to Yohanes Kevin Oenardi Raharjo, Director of Global Auction, this anniversary sale is not only a celebration of the company’s 22-year journey but also a reflection of its ongoing mission to promote Southeast Asian art, especially Indonesian on both a national and global scale.
“It is our commitment to bring the best artworks to the forefront — not only for sale, but also to promote them and ensure these artists gain greater recognition, both in Indonesia and internationally through our global reach,” said Kevin.
The auction is accompanied by a preview exhibition open to the public, and concludes with a live hybrid auction that combines the energy of an in-person event with the ease of online bidding. It’s such a meaningful opportunity for collectors and art enthusiasts to experience and acquire exceptional works.
Auction Details
Bidding Period
2– 22 June 2025
Register now at https://bid.global.auction
Preview Exhibition
4–22 June 2025 | 9 AM–5 PM daily
Masterpiece Building, Jl. Tanah Abang IV No. 23–35, Jakarta
Live Auction
Sunday, 22 June 2025 | 1.30 PM (UTC+7)
Park Hyatt Jakarta, Jl. Kebon Sirih No. 17–19, Jakarta
Access the full e-catalogue here. For more information and requests for assistance, visit www.global.auction or contact us at [email protected] or +62 821 2344 3854.