A rare Kashalos painting titled “The Lifting of the Stone and the Swings” is set to lead the Winter 2025 Sale at Cypria Auctions, taking place on 10 December 2025 in Nicosia. This significant piece, estimated between €25,000 and €40,000, showcases the vibrancy of Cypriot art and the unique opportunity for collectors to acquire works that have not been seen on the market for decades.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
- For further details regarding the catalogue and bidding information, potential buyers can visit www.cypriaauctions.com.
Kashalos: Showcasing Cypriot Heritage
The artwork, a landmark by Michael Kashalos, is drawn from the esteemed Ierodiaconou Collection, which belonged to Michael Ierodiaconou (1926–2009), a notable figure in the Cypriot art scene known for his discerning taste. The painting vividly captures a scene of rural life in Cyprus, employing Kashalos’s distinctive naïve style.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
In this piece, a central tree bifurcates the canvas, presenting two contrasting narratives: on the left, men engage in the strenuous task of lifting a heavy stone, while on the right, girls joyfully swing on wooden swings. This juxtaposition not only reflects the artist’s keen observation of Cypriot life but also showcases his skill in balancing structured geometric forms with fluid brushwork, embodying a dynamic interplay between order and movement.
Diverse Offerings in the Auction
The Winter 2025 Sale will feature approximately 160 lots, encompassing a wide range of artistic expressions, including Cypriot art, Greek modernism, and historical textiles. Among the notable works is an untitled piece attributed to Mikhail Larionov (1915), a key figure in the Russian avant-garde, which carries an estimated value of €15,000 to €20,000. This composition exemplifies Larionov’s bold use of colour and movement, representative of his innovative contributions to art during the early 20th century.
Modern Cypriot Art
In addition to the Kashalos work, several early pieces by Christoforos Savva, a pivotal figure in Cypriot modernism, will be available. Study for Nude (c. 1958) and Figure II (c. 1956–58), both estimated at €8,000 to €12,000 and €8,000 to €10,000 respectively, provide insight into Savva’s exploration of form and chromatic rhythm during his formative years.
Highlighting Greek Masters
The auction will also present works from celebrated Greek artists. One highlight is a rare icon of Saint Barbara (1892/1898) by Theofilos Hadjimichail, valued between €7,000 and €12,000. This tempera painting exemplifies Theofilos’s unique synthesis of post-Byzantine spirituality and naïve expressiveness.
Another significant piece is Meadow by the Sea by Pericles Pantazis (1849–1884), estimated at €12,000 to €16,000. Pantazis, known for his early career abroad, captures the serene atmosphere of northern European coastlines through soft tonal transitions and impressionistic influences.
Symbolism and Depth in Modern Works
Christos Caras’s monumental piece Tree (1968), estimated between €9,000 and €15,000, offers a poignant reflection on nature and memory. The artwork depicts a large, shadowy tree on a plinth, symbolising the tension between the remnants of a living presence and the starkness of an enclosed space. Caras’s use of atmospheric precision and restrained palette invites viewers to contemplate the fragility of the natural world.
Philhellenic and European Treasures
The sale will also feature historical textiles, including an Ottoman silk brocade kemha from the 16th century and an embroidered Epirus panel from the late 18th/early 19th century. These textiles, preserved in excellent condition, are sought after by collectors for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Among the European artworks, a finely painted porcelain plaque of Róza Botsaris, daughter of Greek hero Markos Botsaris, is expected to attract attention with its estimate of €2,000 to €4,000. This piece reflects the romantic Philhellenism that resonated in 19th-century Germany.
A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
The auction at Gallery K in Nicosia presents a rare chance for collectors to acquire significant works that are deeply intertwined with Cyprus’s artistic heritage. Those interested can view all pieces until the auction day at 7:00 p.m. on 10 December 2025.
For further details regarding the catalogue and bidding information, potential buyers can visit www.cypriaauctions.com.
