Solomon Saprid Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Solomon Saprid Art Value Price Guide

Mar. 23, 2025
SOLOMON SAPRID : Don Quixote, 1970
Est: RM35,000 - RM50,000
Solomon Saprid, is a multi-awarded artist in Philippines modern and contemporary art. Saprid was famously known for his trademark sculptures such as the “Tikbalang”, a centaur of home grown “lower mythology” that symbolises male virility, the iconic socially impactful “GomBurza” which is virtually composed of interconnected triangles representing the country’s three major islands of Luzon, Visaya and Mindanao, the religious themed “St. Joseph the Worker” in Malate Church and the universally loved “Mag-Ina” or “Mother and Child” series, this master of “frozen motion”. Saprid adopted bronze welding as his natural medium of art, a style which became uniquely his. His “live” sculptures epitomises the artist’s depiction of corporeal demonstration and flamboyant display of “frozen motion”, which the viewer perceivably detects movement in an otherwise static object. Through his art, he was able to portray Philippines folklore characters as well as historically consequential and religious figures manifested by his distinctive interpretation that became embedded in his repertoire.
KLAS Art Auction
Mar. 15, 2025
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003) a.) Nude b.) Nude c.) Nude d.) Nude e.) Nude
Est: ₱30,000 - ₱39,000
a.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower right) charcoal on paper 26” x 20” (66 cm x 51 cm) b.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower right) charcoal on paper 26” x 20” (66 cm x 51 cm) c.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower right) charcoal on paper 20” x 26” (51 cm x 66 cm) Solomon Saprid is renowned for his brass sculptures celebrating Filipino culture and heritage. He has shown remarkable versatility throughout his career, experimenting with various materials and themes. But just like any artist, Saprid started his artistic journey by drawing and painting. These three charcoal drawings of a female body from 1975 show Saprid’s profound knowledge of forms and artistic virtuoso, not just in sculpting but also in drawing. Indeed, these anatomical studies of the female body serve as a testament to his constant practice and mastery of the human body, which he also materializes in his sculptures. (Jessica Magno)
Leon Gallery
Mar. 15, 2025
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003) a.) Nude b.) Nude c.) Nude d.) Nude e.) Nude
Est: ₱60,000 - ₱78,000
a.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower right) pastel on paper 26” x 20” (66 cm x 51 cm) b.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower right) pastel on paper 18 1/2” x 12 1/2” (47 cm x 32 cm) c.) Nude signed and dated 1972 (lower left) pastel on paper 18” x 12” (46 cm x 30 cm) d.) Nude signed and dated 1974 (lower right) pastel on paper 16 1/2” x 11 3/4” (42 cm x 30 cm) e.) Nude signed and dated 1972 (lower right) pen and ink on paper 18” x 12” (46 cm x 30 cm)
Leon Gallery
Feb. 22, 2025
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Madame Butterfly
Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000
Property from the Collection of a Distinguished Gentleman Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Madame Butterfly signed and dated 1989 brass Height: 11" (28 cm) Length: 12" (30 cm) Width: 10" (25 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Perhaps Solomon Saprid’s first wooden sculpture, Sad Christ, and his entry to the Art Association of the Philippines’ 1967 art competition marked the start of his artistic career. It was a momentous piece that piqued the interest of many, setting the stage for his future success and recognition. Saprid also works with wood and adobe but mostly takes pride in his brass works. His intricately crafted sculptures demonstrate his unbending dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and diligent attitude in working, cementing his name as one of the pillars of modern art. Consequently, he represented the Philippines in the 1971 Indian Triennale and the 1973 Australian Biennial. Saprid’s works often revolve around mythological creatures, but he has also explored various themes such as crucifixion, flagellants, mother and child, puppeteers, and sundry genres of peasant and working folks. His preference for using metal allows him to shape, stretch, and transform it into expressive figures, each one a captivating narrative. In addition to his impressive metalwork and excellent interpretation of his subjects, Saprid has a penchant for making his figures look frozen in time. The lot at hand, Madame Butterfly, shows a woman’s body with an undiscernible head and butterfly wings. Suspended in motion, the figure seems to be kneeling on the ground, her back arched and her hands in the air—it was as if she was slowly morphing into a butterfly or being consumed by one. Despite the lack of color and facial expression, a feeling of distress and agony can be felt throughout the piece, evident in the figure’s body language. (Jessica Magno)
Leon Gallery
Jan. 25, 2025
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Nude signed and dated 1979 (lower right) watercolor on paper 17” x 23 1/4” (43 cm x 59 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jan. 25, 2025
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500
Nude signed and dated 1998 (lower left) charcoal on paper 17" x 11 1/2" (43 cm x 29 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 26, 2024
A Collection of Ten Sketches
Est: ₱12,000 - ₱15,600
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003) a.) Nude signed and dated 1993 (lower right) charcoal on paper 14 1/4" x 9" (36 cm x 23 cm) Galo Ocampo (1913-1985) b.) Nude signed and dated 1972 (lower right) pen on paper 12" x 8 3/4" (30 cm x 22 cm) Edsel Moscoso (1952 - 2008) c.) Nude signed and dated 1974 (lower right) pencil on paper 11 3/4" x 9" (30 cm x 23 cm) Solomon Saprid (1917-2003) d.) Nude signed and dated 1972 (bottom) pen and ink on paper 12" x 9" (30 cm x 23 cm) Carlos Valino (b.1926) e.) Nude signed (lower right) pastel on paper 12" x 9" (30 cm x 23 cm) Alfredo Roces (b. 1932) f.) Nude signed and dated 1974 (lower left) ink on paper 18" x 12" (46 cm x 30 cm) Emilio Aguilar Cruz (1915-1991) g.) Nude signed (lower right) charcoal on paper 18" x 12" (46 cm x 30 cm) Edsel Moscoso (1952 - 2008) h.) Nude signed and dated 1975 (lower left) charcoal on paper 18" x 12" (46 cm x 30 cm) Justin Nuyda (1944 - 2022) i.) Nude signed and dated 1974 (lower lright) pastel on paper 12" x 9" (30 cm x 23 cm) Leon Gallery wishes to thank the artist's estate for confirming the authenticity of this lot Galo Ocampo (1913-1985) j.) Nude signed and dated 1972 (lower left) pencil on paper 14 1/2" x 9 1/2" (37 cm x 24 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 26, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003)
Est: ₱5,000 - ₱6,500
Nude signed and dated 1993 (lower right) charcoal on paper 14 1/4" x 9" (36 cm x 23 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 26, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Nude signed and dated 1976 (lower right) charcoal on paper 20 1/2" x 16" (52 cm x 41 cm)
Leon Gallery
Sep. 14, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Untitled (Distraught Nude)
Est: ₱20,000 - ₱35,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Signed and dated '77' (1977, lower right) Charcoal on paper 53 x 41 cm (21 x 16 in) This artwork has been graciously verified by the heirs of the artist
Salcedo Auctions
Sep. 14, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Penitensiya
Est: ₱500,000 - ₱650,000
PROPERTY FROM THE ROBERTO T. VILLANUEVA COLLECTION Penitensiya signed and dated 1973 bronze with base H: 15 1/2” (39 cm) L: 11 1/4” (29 cm) W: 20” (51 cm) sculpture: H: 13 1/2” (34 cm) L: 10” (25 cm) W: 18 1/2” (47 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot WRITE UP Saprid’s Flagellants Series A Microcosm of Filipino Catholic Culture Hailing from Imus, Cavite, Solomon Saprid is one of the most celebrated modern Filipino sculptors. His foray into sculpting was sparked by the encouragement of Vicente Manansala, a pivotal moment that set him on a unique artistic path. His first wooden sculpture, Sad Christ, was not just a bold entry into the 1967 Art Association of the Philippines’ (AAP) annual art competition, but also a significant moment that piqued the art community’s interest, marking the start of his artistic journey. This momentous piece was a testament to his potential and set the stage for his future success. Consequently, he represented the Philippines in the 1971 Indian Triennale and the 1973 Australian Biennial. While Solomon Saprid’s subjects often revolve around Philippine mythical creatures, such as his famous Tikbalang series, he has also explored various other themes. These include crucifixion, flagellants, mother and child, puppeteers, and sundry genres of peasants and working folks. Throughout his career, Saprid has shown remarkable versatility, experimenting with various materials. His most favored one, metal, allows him to shape, stretch, and transform it into expressive figures, showcasing his adaptability and rang While most of his works are made with bronze, Saprid also takes pride in his brass works. Featuring a man slightly bent down while whipping his own back, this outstanding bronze sculpture is a testament to Saprid’s ingenuity. In Filipino culture, this is an act of penitensya, an occurring sight and practice during the Holy Week. Despite its negative implications on one’s physical health, this is still a continuing practice among Filipinos, for they believe that this act of repentance “will save them from their sins.” Like his other works, an expressive freedom of sculptural manipulation is evident in this work. Moreover, the piece at hand demonstrates Saprid’s unbending dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and diligent attitude in working, cementing his name as one of the pillars of modern art. (Jessica Magno)
Leon Gallery
Jul. 27, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱20,000 - ₱26,000
Tatlong Maria signed and dated 1992 (lower right) graphite on cloth 16" x 19" (41 cm x 48 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank the heirs of the artist for confirming the authenticity of this lot
Leon Gallery
Apr. 20, 2024
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003)
Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500
Nude signed and dated 1982 (lower center) charcoal on paper 17 1/2" x 11 1/2" (44 cm x 29 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank the heirs of Solomon Saprid for confirming the authenticity of this lot
Leon Gallery
Dec. 02, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Skipping Rope (One of Series)
Est: ₱1,000,000 - ₱1,300,000
PROPERTY FROM THE ARCH. GABRIEL FORMOSO COLLECTION Skipping Rope (One of Series) signed and dated 1974 brass height: 41 1/2” (105 cm) width: 17” (43 cm) length: 23” (58 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot WRITE UPSolomon Saprid was at the prime of his artistic career when he made the work at hand in 1974. A year prior, he had achieved that feat of becoming the first Filipino sculptor—and artist, in general—to be featured in a documentary film, which premiered in the 1st Australian Biennale held at the iconic Sydney Opera House from November 1 to December 1, 1973, to which Saprid was also the sole Philippine representative. Flashback to 1972, Saprid unveiled what would eventually become his magnum opus, his pièce de résistance—the bronze ”GomBurZa” Monument, unveiled and inaugurated in 1972 in time for the centenary of the martyrdom of the three Filipino priests whose execution by garrote ignited the flames of Philippine nationalism. At the time of its inauguration, Saprid’s “GomBurZa” was christened as “Manila’s first modern monument” by future National Artist for Literature Alejandro Roces and would be elevated to the elite list of national monuments by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2021. Thus, we see in Skipping Rope Saprid at the zenith of his creative powers. The work, with its arresting, uncontrived snapshot of a girl playing with a skipping rope, captures a palpable sense of dynamic action made possible by Saprid’s masterful endowment of a jagged quality. It is as if Saprid makes his viewers anticipate the circular swinging of the rope as the girl jumps over it. As the eminent art critic Alfredo Roces once said of Saprid’s works: “A Saprid sculpture has a kinetic quality to it…a sense of arrested action. The effect is one towards which the artist strives. He refers to it as ‘frozen motion.’ I’m sure you experienced it as you viewed his work.” The work would eventually find its way in the hands of the distinguished architect Gabriel Formoso, the architectural genius behind some of Manila’s most iconic modernist landmarks, including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex along Roxas Boulevard, the Lepanto Building in Paseo de Roxas, Makati, and the Pacific Star Building in Buendia corner Makati Avenue, then the country’s tallest building upon its inauguration in 1989. (Adrian Maranan)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 21, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Untitled signed and dated 1983 (lower right) graphite on textile 9 1/2” x 8 1/2” (24 cm x 22cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 21, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Untitled signed and dated 1983 (lower right) charcoal on paper 21 1/2” x 14” (55 cm x 36 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 21, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱5,000 - ₱6,500
Mother and child signed and dated 1989 (lower right) graphite on paper 7” x 5” (18 cm x 13 cm)
Leon Gallery
Sep. 19, 2023
Solomon Saprid (Philippines) Bronze Sculpture "Tikbalang" - 1973. Brutalist School.
Est: $30,000 - $40,000
Solomon Saprid (Philippines, 1917 - 2003) Bronze Sculpture "Tikbalang" - 1973. Brutalist School. The Tikbalang, an anthromorphic horse of fable deeply rooted in Philippine mythological culture, is a recurring character in Saprid's works. As myth suggests, this horse-humanoid hybrid is believed to inhabit large trees and is a guardian of a netherworld, with the propensity to play tricks on, or even pursue, unsuspecting humans. Moreover, it is believed that ‘good Tikbalangs’ are bearers of good fortune. Condition: good. Signed "Saprid" in multiple places including on the foot and hip. Dated '73. Approx. 36 inches high x 18d x 16w. Provenance: The Estate of Abbott Lighter Boynton Beach, FL. Aquired while living in Hong Kong. Piece Featured in Hong Kong Tatler Magazine see pics attached.
Bill Hood & Sons Arts & Antiques Auctions
Jul. 29, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱12,000 - ₱15,600
Untitled signed and dated 1979 (lower right) charcoal on paper 17” x 11” (43 cm x 28 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jan. 21, 2023
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1995 (lower right) charcoal on paper 11 1/4” x 8 3/4” (29 cm x 22 cm)
Leon Gallery
Dec. 03, 2022
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Collector
Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000
Collector signed and dated 1979 bronze 21"x14"x10"(53cmx36cmx25cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot EXHIBITED ABC Galleries, Solomon Saprid: Fifth Solo Exhibition, 1981 With the rough and jagged textural intensity of brass as a medium and its symbolic association with the vitality of the human mind, Solomon Saprid imparts an uncoerced and palpable sense of dynamism to his sculptures. Saprid once said that he wanted “action” in his sculpture, noting that none of his works are static and are rendered in what he coined as “frozen motion.” The eminent art critic Alfredo Roces corroborated Saprid’s statement, saying that the latter’s work “has a kinetic quality to it...a sense of arrested action.” In 1979, the year Saprid produced the work at hand, Angel de Jesus praised Saprid’s dexterity in his column on the ‘Business Day.’ De Jesus echoes the words of the eminent Hernando R. Ocampo, in which the latter described Saprid as “the Philippines’ best living sculptor.” “[Saprid’s] metal work is unique and has a blown-out look derived from strands and filaments laboriously welded together to create work in which matter and space convey a feeling of airy, poetic beauty and grace,” de Jesus writes. “The viewer’s eyes do not see the rough metallic texture, enamored as he is by the beauty of the composition, which is emphasized by the color of the metal. It is remarkable how strips of metal can be so constructed as to produce such a feeling of movement and grace.” (A.M.)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 22, 2022
a) Ricarte Puruganan (1912 - 1998) b) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
a) Ricarte Puruganan (1912 - 1998) Portrait signed (lower left) graphite and pastel on paper 22 3/4” x 17” (58 cm x 43 cm) b) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1976 (lower right) charcoal on paper 13 3/4” x 10 3/4” (34 cm x 27 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jul. 30, 2022
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1979 (lower right) charcoal on paper 21” x 19” (53 cm x 48 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jun. 11, 2022
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱600,000 - ₱780,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Untitled signed and dated 1994 (right side) bronze 20" x 8 1/2" x 10" (51 cm x 22 cm x 25 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Our diversity as a nation is perhaps most evident in our vast array of folklore. However, due to rapid modernization and westernization, our native myths and legends have been gradually falling into obscurity, especially in the collective psyche of the current generation. Given this cultural setback, Solomon Saprid uses his works to reintroduce our myriad of pre-colonial folk beliefs that are marks of our identity as a people. One particular creature of Philippine folklore that dominates the oeuvre of Saprid is the tikbalang. Saprid began his now-iconic Tikbalang series in 1971. By welding metal scraps into a raw, Brutalist style, which reached its peak in the 1970s, Saprid generated a jagged characteristic to the form of the mythical beast. In the native context, whoever can successfully subdue the tikbalang and pluck its golden hair from its nape can tame it. The beast then willfully transforms into a servant until the death of its master. The hair strand can also be used as an anting-anting. In work at hand, Saprid creatively redefines the myth of the tikbalang, blending native and Chinese elements and transforming the tikbalang into an icon of prosperity akin to the Oriental "laughing buddha." The creature carries a vessel filled with coins reminiscent of the wealth basket in Chinese feng shui. Saprid depicts the tikbalang as if in the act of offering good fortune and abundance to whoever takes possession of it. A sense of movement and gesture is also apparent in this piece. Saprid's depiction of "frozen motion," where the viewer perceives movement in a static object, is manifested in the tikbalang's gesture of subservience and service. Alfredo Roces wrote: "A Saprid sculpture has a kinetic quality to it…a sense of arrested action. The effect is one towards which the artist strives." (A.M.)
Leon Gallery
Apr. 23, 2022
a) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) b) b) Alan Sycip (b. 1954) c) Charlie Co (b. 1960) - a) Untitled b) Handchart c) Hospital Bed
Est: ₱30,000 - ₱39,000
a) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) b) b) Alan Sycip (b. 1954) c) Charlie Co (b. 1960) a) Untitled b) Handchart c) Hospital Bed a) signed and dated 1979 (lower right) b) signed and dated 1975 (upper right) c) signed and dated 11 June 1993 (lower right) a) charcoal on paper b) oil on paper c) pen and ink on paper a) 16 3/4” x 11” (42 cm x 28 cm) b) 7”x 5 3/4” (18 cm x 14 cm) c) 9” x 11” (23 cm x 28 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jan. 29, 2022
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱100,000 - ₱130,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Untitled signed and dated 1970 wood on metal base 11 1/2” x 8” x 3” (29 cm x 20 cm x 8 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot
Leon Gallery
Jan. 29, 2022
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1979 (lower left) watercolor on paper 18 1/2” x 13 1/2” (47 cm x 34 cm) Leon Gallery wishes to thank the Heirs of Solomon Saprid for confirming the authenticity of this lot.
Leon Gallery
Oct. 16, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 2002 (lower center) charcoal on paper 11 1/2” x 8 1/2” (29 cm x 22 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 16, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1976 (lower right) charcoal on paper 13 1/2” x 11” (34 cm x 28 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 15, 2021
a) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937) Untitled I and II (Portrait) b) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937) Nude c) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude d) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937)
Est: ₱20,000 - ₱26,000
a) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937) Untitled I and II (Portrait) signed and dated 2001 (upper right) pen and ink on paper 24” x 18” (61 cm x 46 cm) each b) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937) Nude signed and dated 2001 (lower right) pen and ink on paper 24” x 18” (61 cm x 46 cm) c) Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1980 (lower right) pastel on paper 12 1/2” x 8 1/2” (32 cm x 22 cm) d) Rafael Cusi (b. 1937) Nude signed and dated 2001 (lower left) pen and ink on paper 18” x 24” (46 cm x 61 cm)
Leon Gallery
Sep. 11, 2021
Solomon Saprid(1917 - 2003) Tikbalang
Est: ₱600,000 - ₱780,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Tikbalang signed and dated 1976 bronze 19 1/2" x 12" x 11 1/2" (49 cm x 30 cm x 29 cm) P 600,000 Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Provenance Private Collection, Manila. . Solomon Saprid is a prime mover of re-introducing to contemporary culture our pre-colonial folk beliefs that are marks of our collective identity as a people. He began creating his Tikbalang series in 1971. By welding scraps of metal into a raw, Brutalist style, Saprid produced a jagged characteristic to the form of the native mythical creature. Angel G. de Jesus described the remarkable skill of Saprid in the March 8, 1979 issue of the Business Day: “His metalwork is unique and has a blown-out look derived from strands and laboriously welded together to create work in which matter and space convey a feeling of airy, poetic beauty and grace.” Saprid’s ability to render metal strips into a work that exudes a feeling of graceful movement is laudable. The tikbalang, usually associated with deception and male virility in local superstition, is given a sense of vulnerability. Needless to say, the Tikbalang series has become the most iconic of Saprid’s oeuvre.
Leon Gallery
Sep. 11, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Creation
Est: ₱1,000,000 - ₱1,300,000
Property from the Margarita "Tingting" Cojuangco collection Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Creation signed and dated 1983 (bottom) bronze 54" x 32" x 28" (137 cm x 81 cm x 71 cm) P 1,000,000 Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot An Imus-born artist, Solomon Saprid began entering art competitions in 1967, submitting his work titled Sad Christ to the sculpture competition of the Art Association of the Philippines. In 1969, he held his debut solo exhibition at the Solidaridad Galleries in Ermita, Manila. He became the Philippine representative to the Indian Triennale in 1971 and the Australian Biennial in 1973. Saprid served as the president of the Art Association of the Philippines for three consecutive terms, from 1974 to 1976. Saprid was also a multi-awarded contemporary artist, winning the first prize for Anihan II in 1977 and the second prize for Eternal Triangle in 1979, both from the Art Association of the Philippines. He was also bestowed with the Araw ng Maynila Award in 1970 by the city government of Manila. In a landmark exhibition in 1990, he showcased his works alongside his other renowned contemporaries Onib Olmedo and Ang Kiukok in “Three Figurative Expressionists” held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. “Mang Sol,” as he was affectionately called by his friends and colleagues, creates commanding metal sculptures with characteristic strips made otherworldly in his stylized soldering. He developed his unique style by entering various arts and sculpture competitions. His unorthodox treatment was met with praise by judges and critics alike, given Saprid’s unique and refreshing take on traditional and age-old subjects and themes. Saprid’s most iconic figures are his nude figures, folk dances, fruits and flowers, and the tikbalang, the most iconic in his oeuvre. In his brass rendition of the creation of man, the figures are suspended in their becoming as threads of metal and brass are soldered together in order to create an effect that implies movement. This striking balance between structure and fluidity is what gives Saprid’s artistry its unparalleled allure in the world of Filipino sculpture. Alfredo Roces described Saprid’s sculptures as having “a kinetic quality to it… a sense of arrested action.” Furthermore, the renowned art critic and artist added: The effect is one towards which the artist strives. He refers to it as ‘frozen motion.’ I’m sure you experienced it as you viewed his work.” In a March 8, 1979 article published in Business Day, Angel G. de Jesus wrote: “In [a] conversation with friends, the late Hernando R. Ocampo used to describe Solomon A. Saprid as [the] “Philippines’ best living sculptor… His metalwork is unique and has a blown-out look derived from strands and laboriously welded together to create work in which matter and space convey a feeling of airy, poetic beauty and grace. The viewer’s eyes do not see the rough metallic texture, enamored as he is by the beauty of the composition, which is emphasized by the color of the metal. It is remarkable how strips of metal can be so constructed as to produce such a feeling of movement and grace.” Saprid always preferred the laborious yet breathtaking art of sculpting. For the artist, “it is very fulfilling because there is very little deception.” In Saprid’s sculptures, the figures contrast the traditional notions of refinement and harmony, cementing his enduring legacy in Philippine contemporary sculpture.
Leon Gallery
Jul. 17, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱80,000 - ₱104,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Taurus signed and dated 1979 (lower left) brass 9 1/2” x 4” x 5” (24 cm x 10 x 13 cm)
Leon Gallery
Jul. 16, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Dimiao Church
Est: ₱20,000 - ₱26,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Dimiao Church signed and dated December 1985 (lower right) pastel on paper 16” x 20” (41 cm x 51 cm)
Leon Gallery
Apr. 10, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Tikbalang signed and dated 1982 (right) brass 7” x 12” x 10” (18 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm)
Leon Gallery
Apr. 10, 2021
Solomon Saprid d (1917 - 2003)
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid d (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 8.27.99 (lower right) charcoal on paper 10” x 12” (25 cm x 30 cm)
Leon Gallery
Feb. 27, 2021
Solomon Saprid d (1917 - 2003) - Tikbalang
Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000
Solomon Saprid d (1917 - 2003) Tikbalang (right) ca. 1986 bronze 18” x 8 1/2” x 5 1/2” (46 cm x 22 cm x 14 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of the artist confirming the authenticity of this lo WRITE UP: A visionary sculptor, Solomon Saprid has produced sculptures out of welding scraps of metal to create a jagged effect. His works are marked by unconcealed welding points and rough-hewn surfaces. Among the various themes Saprid took upon for his sculptures, his Tikbalang series is considered the most iconic in his oeuvre. With an approach far from the traditional sculpture techniques, Saprid is able to render movement in the dynamic sculptural form of his favored mythical character by demonstrating the concept of “frozen motion” in which a certain piece, despite being a static object, enables the viewer to detect movement. Alfredo Roces noted this as well. “A Saprid sculpture has a kinetic quality to it . . . a sense of arrested action. The effect is one towards which the artist strives,” said Roces. This Tikbalang piece, for instance, shows a rough metallic texture that veers away from the classical seamlessness of surface and purity of form. Here, expression is unrestrained and Saprid’s mastery of manipulating his chosen medium is showcased. Saprid was an illustrator for scientific and textbooks before he ventured into creating masterful metal sculptures with characteristic strips made otherworldly in his stylized soldering. His distinct welding techniques produced figurative intricacies and pronounced angles. Brass is also his signature material, and he is best known for his portrayals of Philippine folklore, genre, and religious characters.
Leon Gallery
Feb. 23, 2021
SOLOMON SAPRID (Philippines, 1917-2003) brass scul
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
SOLOMON SAPRID (Philippines, 1917-2003) brass sculpture, man on in lament on his knees with clasped hands and face lifted to the sky. Signed "Saprid" and dated 1969. The sculpture measures 19.5" x 7.5" x 10".
O'Gallerie
Feb. 06, 2021
SOLOMON SAPRID, Brutalist Sculpture
Est: $8,000 - $12,000
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003). Bronze sculpture of a prostrate man, possibly a prisoner. Condition: Excellent. Signed on the thigh of the figure and dated to 1979. Measures 15" at the longest dimension, 9 3/4" high.
Blackwell Auctions LLC
Feb. 06, 2021
SOLOMON SAPRID, Brutalist Sculpture
Est: $8,000 - $12,000
Solomon Saprid (1917-2003). Bronze sculpture of a water carrier. Condition: Excellent. Signed on the torso of the figure and dated "9-26-81." Measures 15 1/2" tall.
Blackwell Auctions LLC
Jan. 23, 2021
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude
Est: ₱8,000 - ₱10,400
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1990 (upper right) 12” x 9 1/2” (30 cm x 24 cm)
Leon Gallery
Oct. 17, 2020
Solomon Saprid - Nude
Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500
Solomon Saprid Nude pastel on paper 24” x 15” (61 cm x 38 cm)
Leon Gallery
Sep. 19, 2020
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Mother and Child
Est: ₱300,000 - ₱390,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Mother and Child signed and dated 1979 (lower right) brass Imuseño Solomon Saprid was an illustrator for scientific and textbooks before he ventured into creating masterful metal sculptures with characteristic strips made otherworldly in his stylized soldering. The mother and child theme, which this specific work features, is one of the multi-awarded artist’s main subject matters in his brass pieces. It reflects how he captures figurative intricacies, pronounced angles, and gracefulness of mid-motions through his distinct welding techniques. Brass is also his signature material, utilizing its qualities to create “live” sculptures in “frozen motion,” a term used to describe the movement detected by the viewer upon encountering a static object. Saprid is best known for his portrayals of Philippine folklore, genre, and religious characters in his body of works. Estimate in USD $6000-$7800
Leon Gallery
Jul. 18, 2020
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Amihan
Est: ₱300,000 - ₱390,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Amihan signed and dated 1979 brass 18” x 16” x 8” (46 cm x 41 cm x 20 cm) This piece is accompanied by a certificate issued by the heirs of Solomon Saprid confirming the authenticity of this lot Solomon Saprid sculptures have a textured flare due to his excellent utilization of brass that produced a distinct jagged effect. Regardless of scale, the respected sculptor adhered to accuracy of form in his works. Art critic Alfredo Roces described his sculptures as possessing a “kinetic quality” and a “sense of arrested action.” Saprid refers to this as “frozen motion,” which became distinctly his. Others also call his works “live” sculptures. As a versatile artist, there is also intuition—toward his chosen material, chiefly brass—at work. His sought-after sculptures are celebrated portrayals of Philippine folklore as well as historically consequential and religious characters. Estimate: USD $6000-$7800 Euros €5000-€6500
Leon Gallery
Jul. 18, 2020
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Nude
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1979 (lower right) pastel on canvas 13” x 19 1/2” (33 cm x 50 cm) Estimate: USD $200-$260 Euros €166.66-€216.66
Leon Gallery
Jul. 18, 2020
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Nude
Est: ₱10,000 - ₱13,000
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Nude signed and dated 1985 (lower right) pastel on canvas 20” x 16” (51 cm x 41 cm) Estimate: USD $200-$260 Euros €166.66-€216.66
Leon Gallery
Jul. 12, 2020
SOLOMON SAPRID : Don Quixote, 1970
Est: RM80,000 - RM150,000
Solomon Saprid, is a multi-awarded artist in Philippines modern and contemporary art. Saprid was famously known for his trademark sculptures such as the “Tikbalang”, a centaur of home grown “lower mythology” that symbolises male virility, the iconic socially impactful “GomBurza” which is virtually composed of interconnected triangles representing the country’s three major islands of Luzon, Visaya and Mindanao, the religious themed “St. Joseph the Worker” in Malate Church and the universally loved “Mag-Ina” or “Mother and Child” series, this master of “frozen motion”. Saprid adopted bronze welding as his natural medium of art, a style which became uniquely his. His “live” sculptures epitomises the artist’s depiction of corporeal demonstration and flamboyant display of “frozen motion”, which the viewer perceivably detects movement in an otherwise static object. Through his art, he was able to portray Philippines folklore characters as well as historically consequential and religious figures manifested by his distinctive interpretation that became embedded in his repertoire.
KLAS Art Auction
May. 30, 2020
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) - Tatlong Maria
Est: ₱8,000 - ₱10,400
Solomon Saprid (1917 - 2003) Tatlong Maria signed and dated 1992 (lower right) graphite on cloth 15 1/2” x 18 1/2” (39 cm x 47 cm)
Leon Gallery