Sydney - Bonhams achieved a white-glove sale for The Sperling Collection: Himalayan and Asian Works of Art, an online auction that closed on 25 June in Sydney. All 47 lots were sold, realising a total of AU$500,032. The auction attracted robust international interest, with over 160 registered bidders worldwide—highlighting Bonhams' global reach and the enduring appeal of Himalayan and Asian religious art among collectors.
The top lot of the sale was a Nepalese gilt copper alloy head of a Bodhisattva, dating to the early 14th century, which achieved AU$209,100—more than 26 times its pre-sale low estimate. It drew heated bidding from over nine international collectors. Another standout was a gilt copper alloy repoussé figure of a Lama, dated to the 15th/16th century, which sold for AU$29,520, reflecting the continued demand for ritual imagery of Himalayan origin.
Yvett Klein, Senior Specialist, Oriental and Asian Art, Bonhams, commented: "We were honoured to steward the Sperling Family Collection and were thrilled by the enthusiastic response it received globally. The strong results reflect the depth of our international reach and specialist expertise. It was a genuine pleasure to present such a deeply respected collection to Bonhams' community of collectors and connoisseurs."
The Sperling Collection
Comprising over 50 Buddhist sculptures, relics, and gilt copper alloy ritual fragments, the Sperling Collection represents the lifelong dedication of Judy and Harold Sperling, who began their collecting journey in the 1970s. Their extensive travels across Asia brought them into close dialogue with religious leaders, museum curators, antique dealers, and scholars. The collection reflects not only a refined eye and deep reverence for Buddhist art, but also the cross-cultural relationships and insights cultivated over decades.
Other Notable Results
• A group of 21 necromancer's bone apron elements Tibet, 16th to 19th century, sold for AU$29,520
• A pale-brown-ground satin embroidered robe, chuba, Mid-19th century, sold for AU$23,370
• A gilt copper alloy repoussé Prabha Mandorla, Tibet, 14th/15th century, sold for AU$22,140