The Facts
Bonhams Hong Kong will present ICONIC SPEELMAN, a dedicated sale featuring more than 40 lots from the collection of Jules Speelman, one of the world's most respected dealers and collectors of Asian art, on October 28, 2026. The auction marks Bonhams' fourth collaboration with Speelman, following three landmark sales in Paris in 2024 and Hong Kong in 2025. The sale offers a broader view of his celebrated Chinese works of art collection, including imperial cloisonné, lacquer, and other works, with highlights such as an exceptionally rare monumental gilt-bronze figure of Avalokiteshvara (estimate HK$7,000,000–9,000,000) and a rare cloisonné archaistic vessel (estimate HK$3,000,000–4,000,000). The Speelman family antiques trade spans three generations, originating in 19th-century Holland, with Jules joining in 1964 and shifting focus towards Asia.
The Signal
The collection reflects Jules Speelman's over 60 years of experience and his reputation for quality, rarity, and craftsmanship, with works widely published and exhibited. Asaph Hyman, Global Head of Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, praised Speelman's innate sense for the exceptional, while Speelman expressed pleasure in sharing pieces that epitomise his lifelong passion. The sale underscores the enduring appeal of Chinese works of art with impeccable provenance, such as pieces tracing back to the historic Berlin gallery China-Bohlken. For collectors, this auction represents a rare opportunity to acquire works from a connoisseur whose name is synonymous with the finest in Asian art, potentially setting benchmarks for similar pieces in the market.
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- People: Jules Speelman, Asaph Hyman, Alfred Speelman, Otto Burchard
- Auction Houses: Bonhams
- Galleries: A & J Speelman, China-Bohlken
- Locations: Hong Kong
- Prices: HK$7,000,000 – 9,000,000, HK$3,000,000 – 4,000,000
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