Lot #51: Vintage Mid-Century Modern "Mallard Ducks" Mixed Media Leaf Painting by L. Arrienda

Vintage Mid-Century Modern "Mallard Ducks" Mixed Media Leaf Painting by L. Arrienda • Artist: L. Arrienda (Signed, bottom right) • Period: Circa 1960s – 1970s • Medium: Acrylic/Oil on Natural Skeletonized Leaves, mounted on a woven linen/burlap matting. • Subject: Mallard Ducks in Flight over Water • Frame Dimensions: Approx. 25" W 13" H (63.5 cm 33 cm) • Origin: The Philippines Description & Artist Background Up for auction is a beautiful, highly collectible example of mid-century mixed-media folk art by noted Filipino artist L. Arrienda. During the 1960s and 1970s, the Philippines became globally recognized for its masterful export of leaf skeleton paintings. Arrienda was one of the premier recognized artisans of this movement, skillfully utilizing the intricate, delicate vein structures of natural preserved leaves as a textured canvas. This specific panoramic piece features a dynamic, vibrant scene of a flock of Mallard ducks alighting over deep teal-blue waters. The natural vertical veins of the layered leaves beautifully mimic the appearance of marsh reeds, blending organic materials seamlessly with fine brushwork. The artwork is housed in its original, era-authentic long wooden frame featuring a gold inner trim, set against a classic coarse linen mat board. The reverse side retains its original vintage studio label reading: "Hand painted on natural leaves" along with the original handwritten inventory production marking ("017-BC"). Condition Report • Artwork: Excellent vintage condition. The paint remains exceptionally vibrant with no signs of flaking. The fragile underlying leaf skeletons are perfectly preserved under the glass with no cracking or shifting. • Frame & Backing: The original mid-century wooden frame is sturdy with light, character-rich cosmetic wear consistent with age. The paper tape seal and hardboard backing are fully intact, featuring the original hanging wire and authentication stickers Nearest intersection Younge Street and Stelees Avenue Dimensions: 25" W 13" H (63.5 cm 33 cm) Pickup category timeslot {A}