Mauro Malang Santos Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1928 - d. 2017

Born in Santa Cruz, Manila in 1928, artist Mauro Malang Santos is best known for creating the popular comic strips Beelzebub and Kosme, the Cop, Retired. Forgoing a formal education in art after one semester, the artist went to work for a newspaper, apprenticing under cartoonist Liborio Gatbonton. Mauro Malang Santos' paintings were first shown, solo, at an exhibition in 1962. Two years later, the Society of Philippine Illustrators and Cartoonists made him Artist of the Year.

Later in his career, Santos expanded his interest in art. Cubism and abstract-modern portraits became the style and subject of Mauro Malang Santos paintings in the early 90s. Images of expressive female figures in poor parts of the Philippines, highlighted by ragged yet traditional clothing, were key features in Mauro Malang Santos' artwork. Bring a gorgeous beauty into your gallery by browsing arresting portrait paintings online at Invaluable.

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  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928-2017)
    Sep. 12, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928-2017)

    Est: ₱2,400,000 - ₱3,120,000

    Four Seasons signed and dated 15.XI.94 (lower right) oil on canvas 44 1/2" x 36 1/2" (113 cm x 93 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE Private collection, Manila   By the 1990s, Mauro Malang Santos had already established himself as a decorated artist. With a veritable list of awards for editorial design, cartoons, and paintings, among others, group and individual exhibitions, and accolades from the press under his belt, Santos was definitely a darling of the masses, an epithet that was well-deserved as he was named the third most popular contemporary artist by The Daily Tribune in a July 2000 survey, only behind Fernando Amorsolo and Vicente Manansala. This 1994 Four Seasons portrays the artist’s distinct visual language and measured sense of order. Malang, as he is mononymously known, was highly revered for his imaginative use of color. He is an intuitive painter, especially in the realm of colors. Juan T. Gatbonbon put it best when he described Malang as a “jazz musician.” “[Malang] likes to improvise — often comparing his color work with the riffs of a jazz musician — so that his colors run the gamut of the spectrum,” he said in the artist’s profile as published in The Art of Malang as Filipino. Malang’s fascination and innate talent for colors are perhaps influenced by his optimistic outlook in life. Indeed, even with the intrinsic harshness of Cubism, which he espoused, his attention was never on the darker aspects of life. Even the barungbarong, an image from the derelict side of urban life, takes on a happier, lighter side under Malang’s brush. The quadriptych of Four Seasons, once viewed as a whole, portrays the images of brambling tree branches extending past one canvas and into the other. Echoing the color schemes of summer, autumn, winter, and spring, Malang’s arrangement is a carnival play of petals and leaves in shades of green, yellow, brown, and red. Malang’s joyous celebration of life was ever present in the early days of his artworks and it showed no sign of stopping decades later. With a horticulturist’s eye, he creates masterful projections of a variety of plants and flowers, all with his consistently assured manner of overworking the canvas. As Rod. Paras Perez said, “[Malang’s brushwork] is intimate; it caresses and lingers, each stroke carefully building up from the previous [one.] None of those slashing, overspeeding, oversize brushstrokes that will appear to wound and violate the canvas. Everything in Malang’s world proceeds with a measured sense of order.” (Hannah Andrea Valiente)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Sep. 12, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000

    Untitled signed and dated 5.11.78 (lower left) pastel on paper 27” x 19 1/2” (69 cm x 50 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot A masterpiece that transforms the Filipino scene into a vibrant arrangement of geometric shapes, figures, and colors, Mauro Malang Santos presents a familiar scene of Filipino people and everyday surroundings as a festive display of simplified forms. Creating a work of art that is playful and also mixed decorative qualities that made his painting festive and dreamlike. Organized like a patchwork of interlocking shapes where large areas of orange, black, brown, and cream build up the structure while the black lines outline one form from another, Malang creates a noticeable figure of an elongated woman made up of a few long curved shapes while holding a tray of either fruits or flowers. The shapes are reduced to pure geometric forms that simplify their appearance through overlapping planes while maintaining their recognizable identity. The result is a wonderful yet very controlled composition that feels both cheerful and decorative. A folk-like masterpiece that turns ordinary Filipino life into something festive and dreamlike. (Mark John Castañeda)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jul. 25, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱80,000 - ₱104,000

    Untitled signed (lower right) dated 31.X.90 (lower left) ink and pastel on paper 7 1/4” x 8 3/4” (18 cm x 22 cm) Leon Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot Though best known for his folk paintings, Malang’s still-life compositions prove the artist’s incredible dexterity. As is the case with this piece, Malang depicts a close-up of a plant, its leaves shooting up and about in all directions. Here, he paints impressionistically, being more interested in translating the plant’s vivacious energy than in capturing it as close to life as possible. His vivid sense of colors elevates this piece of work, creating an extravagant burst of aesthetic beauty as befits a master at the peak of his artistic prowess. (Hannah Andrea Valiente)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jul. 25, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Fish Vendor hand-signed and dated 1995 (lower right) serigraph, 9/30 25” x 19 1/4” (64 cm x 49 cm) PROVENANCE: Artprints Philippines

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jul. 25, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Untitled hand-signed and dated 2003 (lower right) serigraph, 49/50 16 1/2” x 15 1/4” (42 cm x 39 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jun. 13, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

    Tatlong Maria signed and dated 15.X.99 (lower right) oil on canvas 8 1/2" x 8 1/2" (22 cm x 22 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE West Gallery Mauro Malang Santos's dedication to mastering one image before moving to another reflects his disciplined approach. Thus, after his cartoons and flora, he introduced his female figures into his canvases only in the late 1970s. With his signature cubistic folds and thick limbs, Malang portrayed his women sitting and huddling in darkness. Moreover, his reputation as a master colorist is evident in his layering of bright colors over a dark background, which gives his figures an illuminating glow. This coloring technique, however, evokes a hushed yet suspenseful atmosphere as the trio appears to be running and hiding from the unknown. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos Figurative Acrylic on Paper
    May. 03, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos Figurative Acrylic on Paper

    Est: -

    Art Measure: 17w x 25h Frame Measure: 26w x 32h In good condition with wear commensurate with age. From the estate collection of Alexander Goykhman. A compelling figurative composition rendered in acrylic on paper, this work by Mauro Malang Santos presents a stylized grouping of figures arranged in a quiet yet emotionally resonant tableau. The central seated figure is flanked by two attendants, each holding objects that introduce subtle narrative elements, while the elongated forms and simplified features reflect Malang’s distinctive modernist vocabulary. A warm palette of soft pinks, muted blues, and earthy tones creates a gentle atmospheric field, contrasted by bold outlines and expressive facial treatments that lend the composition a contemplative presence. The figures are arranged with a deliberate symmetry, their poses restrained yet communicative, evoking themes of domestic life and shared experience. The flattened perspective and rhythmic use of pattern contribute to a harmonious visual balance, while the artist’s hand remains evident in the painterly application and nuanced color transitions. Signed "Malang 12.7X.95" at the lower right and presented under glass within a ridged gilt frame, the work retains a strong decorative and narrative appeal consistent with the artist’s celebrated figurative style. Mauro "Malang" Santos (1928–2017) was a highly regarded Filipino painter, illustrator, and cartoonist, widely recognized for his contributions to modern Philippine art. Known for his whimsical yet poignant depictions of everyday life, Malang developed a signature style characterized by simplified forms, expressive faces, and a playful yet thoughtful approach to composition. His works often explore themes of family, community, and cultural identity, rendered with warmth and subtle humor. Over a long and prolific career, he exhibited internationally and remains an influential figure in Southeast Asian modernism. Mauro Malang Santos (1928–2017), universally known as Malang, was a prolific Filipino cartoonist and award-winning painter. He is celebrated for bridging the gap between popular media and fine art, transitioning from a beloved comic illustrator to a vanguard of Philippine modernism.

    Monarch Auction and Estate Services
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱30,000 - ₱39,000

    Vendors and Cities signed and dated 2004 colored pencil on paper 7 3/4” x 6” (18 cm x 15 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Flowers III hand-signed and dated 1994 (lower right) serigraph, 68/95 25” x 19” (64 cm x 48 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Yellow Woman Vendor hand-signed and dated 1992 (lower right) serigraph 29/50 22 1/4” x 15 1/2” (57 cm x 39 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by Artprints Philippines Inc. confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    hand-signed and dated 2008 (lower right) serigraph 47/ 50 17 1/2” x 14 3/4” (44 cm x 37 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by Artprints Philippines Inc. confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Mother and Child III hand-signed and dated 1994 (lower right) serigraph 8/50 21 1/4” x 15 3/4” (54 cm x 40 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by Artprints Philippines Inc. confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Apr. 18, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Untitled signed (lower right) print 10” x 17 1/4” (25 cm x 44 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos Gouache on Paper
    Mar. 31, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos Gouache on Paper

    Est: $3,000 - $5,000

    Mauro Malang Santos, Filipino (1928-2017). Gouache on paper in gilt wood frame features a religious procession scene in Malang's distinct style. Signed and dated '63 top left. Measures 26 1/8"H x 16"W framed; 19.5"H x 9.5"W visual. Condition: surface wear to gilt finish, please see all photos. Contact AAG for more detailed information if needed. AAG is not responsible for any errors or omissions to any lots. All sales are final and sold as is. This lot cannot be shipped in house. Please contact our third party shippers for quotes.

    Abington Auction Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos Still Life Painting
    Mar. 31, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos Still Life Painting

    Est: $2,000 - $3,000

    Mauro Malang Santos, Filipino (1928-2017). Gouache still life on paper in colorful shades of green mounted in a chrome frame and signed, dedication and date '77 top left. Measures 20 1/8"H x 16.75"W framed; 10.75"H x 7.75"W visual. Condition: good condition, some marks on the glass, please see all photos. Contact AAG for more detailed information if needed. AAG is not responsible for any errors or omissions to any lots. All sales are final and sold as is. This lot cannot be shipped in house. Please contact our third party shippers for quotes.

    Abington Auction Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Soler Santos (b. 1960) Steve Santos (1951 - 2022)
    Feb. 14, 2026

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Soler Santos (b. 1960) Steve Santos (1951 - 2022)

    Est: ₱6,000,000 - ₱7,800,000

    Interaction signed and dated 2000 (lower right) oil on canvas 84" x 156" (213 cm x 396 cm) LITERATURE Gatbonton, Juan T. and Alya B. Honasan. The Art of Malang as Filipino. Mandaluyong City: The Crucible Workshop, 2002. Photograph of Malang, Steve, and Soler Santos with the painting reproduced in color on page 14. The turn of the new millennium saw Mauro Malang Santos in high spirits as he welcomed the first month of the year with celebrations for his 72nd birthday and his 40 years in the Philippine art scene. In fact, when the new millennium kicked off, Malang was blessed with four solo shows in one month, proving that age is just a number. The optimistic Malang smilingly said in a January 15, 2000 interview with The Manila Bulletin: “How else should I welcome the New Year? Many people send the old year off with firecrackers, and they are happy doing that. I am happiest when I paint. Becoming a painter was one of the best things that ever happened to me.” The year 2000 was also a very special year for Malang, as it marked his first creative collaboration with his two beloved sons, Steve and Soler. This mural-sized painting is remarkable for being the first interaction painting Malang created with his two equally talented sons, who both followed his creative footsteps. The work was commissioned by a Philippine conglomerate in 2000, in line with the celebrations for the new millennium. “I am only beginning. Hindi ako nagsasawa [I am not getting bored] after 41 years of my career in art. Without fail, I still get to paint every day.” In a recent correspondence with Leon Gallery, Soler shared the contributions of each family member to the painting. The upper portion of the work, including the sky and birds, was painted by his older brother, Steve, whose style in this work echoes his father’s. On the other hand, Soler painted his signature tree forms on both sides of the work. Their father, of course, painted the central subject, showcasing his trademark breezy, cartoon-like figures that sparkle with childlike joy and innocence. Malang’s subjects portray a configuration of technological machinery and abstracted figures representing multiple spheres of society that speak not only of the institution’s prestige and standing, but more so its commitment to be of service to every Filipino, even beyond borders and oceans. The piece sparkles with confidence and exuberance, reflecting the country and its institutions entering the new millennium with renewed hope, optimism, and a vision for a progressive future. Being a collaborative painting, the work sees Malang continuing the “interaction painting” tradition of the Saturday Group of Artists, which he once headed from 1994 to 1998, succeeding Cesar Legaspi. Malang had been supportive of his two sons’ decision to pursue art as both a profession and a vocation, with him serving as their first art teacher and making them meet his friends who were also titans of Philippine art: Manansala, Legaspi, H.R. Ocampo, Olazo, Kiukok, and Larry Alcala, who became Steve’s godfather. Steve mounted his debut solo exhibition in August 1975 at the Luz Gallery, where his younger sibling, Soler, also held his debut in 1981. There’s a comic backstory about Steve before he debuted as a painter. Roberto Chabet, Steve’s mentor at the UP School of Fine Arts, asked Arturo Luz to give his bright student an exhibition. Luz then phoned Malang, saying, “Mayroon ka palang anak na pintor, at mas magaling pa daw sa iyo. Kailan siya Pwedeng mag-exhibit?” To which Malang humorously replied, “Basta’t creation ko, magaling!” Steve, known for his realist paintings of commonplace objects and settings shrouded in enigma, was also an avid photographer. With his mastery of form and composition, he once called his subjects “decisive moments” captured in permanence, seeing and photographing things he liked, with the images he did not capture on film, he kept at the back of his mind, and at the most suitable moment, painting them with camera-like precision as they filled his stream of consciousness. On the other hand, Soler found solace in nature’s images: leaves at different stages and trees in various life cycles. He first made his mark with his dexterity in tempera and watercolors, with his signature leaf forms evoking nostalgia, romance, and warmth all at once. Interestingly, it was also Malang himself who offered Soler the present lot on which West Gallery now stands. Malang was notably the one who encouraged the hesitant Soler, with both having the idea of conceiving the gallery for future up-and-coming artists to have their own exhibit space, a form of giving back to the community, especially for the seasoned Malang. When Steve and Soler debuted, critics and audiences alike were quick to notice their differences in style from their esteemed father. In a Lifestyle Inquirer interview for West Gallery’s 35th anniversary in 2024, Soler shared that their father inspired them both to develop discipline and uniqueness. He said: “Tatay was very disciplined with his practice as an artist. He showed us by example and encouraged us to paint or draw every day. He was also very serious about us developing our own style and would always buy books and art magazines. Our travels were always to see museums and galleries, even when the kids were small and seemed uninterested at that time. Now, they are the ones who are more informed about important art shows and events and have taken us to new galleries and museums.” Overall, this painting conveys the joy of the family, the warmth of belongingness, and the delightful feeling of being embraced by a love that resonantly speaks of nurturing and encouragement.

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱180,000 - ₱234,000

    Woman signed and dated 1997 and inscribed singapore (lower right) watercolor on paper 10" x 7 1/4" (25 cm x 18 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot   This untitled 1997 piece bears witness to Malang's profound artistry and his deep understanding of his forms. Displaying his Filipino sensibilities, he depicted a young woman dressed in a traditional Filipiniana, her honey-brown complexion radiating amidst the colors around her. She was fashioned in an undeniable Malang style—long neck, thick limbs, and taut expression, rendered in a colorful palette. Her posture exudes a poised, ladylike aura. Even so, Malang's portrayal and use of polychromatic hues contrasted her meek demeanor and brought out the rather gleeful nature of the Filipinos. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱1,800,000 - ₱2,340,000

    Mother and Child signed and dated 1967 (lower right) acrylic on canvas 17 1/4" x 35 3/4" (44 cm x 91 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot   PROVENANCE The Luz Gallery Private collection, Manila LITERATURE Roces, Alfredo, Mauro Malang Santos, and Eric Torres. The Art of Malang: Commentaries by Alfredo Roces and Eric Torres. Makati: Luz Gallery, 1967. Published on the occasion of Malang’s exhibition, 45-Piece One- Man Exhibit, at The Luz Gallery from November 21 to December 5, 1967. Black-and-white photograph on page 14. "Gems of the East." The Manila Chronicle Magazine (Manila, Philippines), December 1967. Full-color illustration. EXHIBITED The Luz Gallery, Mauro Malang Santos: 2nd One-Man Show, Makati, 21 November - 6 December 1967   “Actually, I’m a late starter. I started doing serious painting only in 1967, when I had a one-man show at the Luz Gallery. My first one-man show was at the Philippine Art Gallery, but those were semi-cartoons. For me, that show served as a transition between cartooning and serious painting.” —M AU RO M A L A N G S A N TO S , I N A N I N T E RV I E W W I T H C I D R E Y E S , T R A N S C R I B E D I N H I S M O N O G R A P H “ M A L A N G : PA I N T I N G A N D D R AW I N G S .”

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱180,000 - ₱234,000

    Plants signed and dated 3.VIII.88 (lower right) gouache on paper 12" x 8 1/2" (30 cm x 22 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot   Despite being primarily known as a painter of genre scenes, his iconic depictions of Manila’s vendors and townsfolk bathed in the warmth of tropical light, Malang would, on occasion, flex his creative muscle in the quieter, more contemplative realm of still life painting. This untitled composition reveals the artist’s remarkable versatility and the assuredness of his hand. Here, he reimagines the still life not as a simple depiction of flora, but as an arena for formal experimentation. The leaves and flowers appear less as literal foliage and more as rhythmic expressions of motion and energy. The composition exudes a dynamic sense of balance; its angular geometry and overlapping shapes create a push and pull between structure and spontaneity. Through bold brushwork and a cubistic arrangement, Malang infuses the static motif of the vase with pulsating vitality. The result is a painting that seems to breathe, as though the artist sought not to capture the appearance of nature, but its inner pulse. Beyond the piece, one might also read the work through the lens of Maurice Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenology of perception: the painting does not simply represent objects, but embodies the act of seeing itself, translating the vitality of observation into form. In this synthesis of intuition and design, Malang transforms the familiar genre of still life into an expressive meditation on perception, rhythm, and the modern condition of painting itself. (Jed Daya)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱1,600,000 - ₱2,080,000

    Carroza signed and dated 14-II-84 (lower right) tempera on board 28" x 22 1/2" (71 cm x 57 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE Private collection, Manila A celebration of Filipino spirituality interpreted through a contemporary visual artistic lens, Mauro Malang Santos' Carroza merges religious imagery with abstract modernism to elevate the traditional image of faith into a modern icon—a universal symbol of light and vitality. The composition includes a fragmented illustration of a saint. Possibly The Virgin Mary carrying a smaller figure of a Santo Ñino (holy child). The overall presence of geometric shapes, together with the vibrant and vivid colors of ochres, reds, yellows, and whites, impies the tone of celebration— The image itself emerging from an explosion of angular kaleidoscopic patterns and color. Which fits the joyous and colorful celebrations of local Fiestas, where the title Carroza situates the scene within such context. In short, Malang efficiently elevates the religious procession into a dynamic composition of color and form—basically fusing faith and modernism, creating a piece that turns Filipino religious identity into a vibrant geometry. Merging modern art principles with the warm spirituality of Filipino Life. (Mark John Castañeda)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱260,000 - ₱338,000

    Kambal signed and dated 28.I.87 (lower right) gouache 13 1/2" x 11" (34 cm x 28 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE Finale Art File León Gallery, The Magnificent September Auction 2017, Makati City, 29 September 2017, Lot 68 Connecting both abstraction and Filipino folk motifs in a single image, Mauro "Malang" Santos's 1987 piece, Two Women, offers a glimpse of his modernist style, celebrating his preferred theme: the Celebration of Filipino women, specifically from rural or market settings. Using their symbols to represent strength, simplicity, and tradition. Executed in gouache, this masterpiece depicts two standing female figures, illustrated in a stylized, flattened form with strong outlines and segmented blocks of color. Each figure carries what seems to be a basket of fruit or goods on its head, implying that the women are vendors, bathed in a warm yellow background and contrasted against overlapping hues of green, blue, and white, creating a beautiful harmony as the cool tones dominate the figures. In contrast, the golden-yellow ground gives the figure a warm, glowing presence. The result is a visual language that celebrates Filipino womanhood, resilience, companionship, and cultural continuity. Malang uses abstracted figures of women to create a universal image that represents such virtues, transforming their individuality into a holistic archetype that represents Filipinos as a whole. (Mark John Castañeda)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱1,800,000 - ₱2,340,000

    PROPERTY OF A DISTINGUISHED LADY Barung Barong signed and dated 1968 (upper right) acrylic on canvas 19 1/4" x 31" (49 cm x 79 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot Ayear after Mauro Malang Santos’s second oneman show at the Luz Gallery, his 1968 BarungBarong is an amalgamation of the artist’s thenblossoming art career. During his early years, his works were characterized by his illustrator background, with their thick black outlines and a cutout, almost printlike, quality. His illustrious career as a comic artist was established decades before his painting took off, with his creation of Kosme, the Cop, Retired, the country’s first Englishlanguage daily comic strip. However, it was in his 1967 Luz Gallery show that prompted him to start doing serious painting. In an interview with Cid Reyes published in his monograph Malang: Paintings and Drawings, he stated his process for painting his barung-barong pieces. Then working around Intramuros, Malang used to take photographs of barungbarongs. “But I never really copied the photographs literally,” he pointed out. “All I do is copy the forms. I ad-lib a great deal.” In this 1968 Barung-barong, Malang’s print-like quality is evident, especially in the house’s wooden and iron sheet panels. His vibrant color scheme and strong sense of composition take center stage, combining elements of cubism, figuration, and abstraction in his portrayal of these shanties. His love for portraying barung-barong is well-documented. In the same interview, he said, “I don’t believe in doing different subjects just for the sake of changing subjects. I think that you have to master one image, one form [...] Me, I never get tired of my barungbarong.” One thing noted about Malang’s barungbarong is its relative festivity. As opposed to the depressing, dilapidated houses that relay of the country’s poverty, his pieces tell of the brighter, sunnier Philippines. Perhaps it’s his color sense, where his vivid, rich hues come to life through his intuitive vision. An ‘ad-lib,’ as he is fond of saying. The best of Malang, from this era to the next, is perhaps best put into words by Maria Luisa Reyes Llamado in a Manila Bulletin article about his 1967 exhibition, where she said: “Malang’s works appeal to all. He has captured the Filipino soul,’ she continues. “His viewers will always find an identification of themselves in his landscapes and dayto-day living [...] The local scene must be faithfully depicted, and no one has done it more delightfully, more faithfully than Malang.” (Hannah Valiente)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱200,000 - ₱260,000

    White Vase signed and dated 7.XII.81 (lower right) gouache on paper 15" x 15" (38 cm x 38 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot Bathed in the celebration of light, growth, and creativity, this beautiful piece by Mauro "Malang" Santos reflected the signature modernist approach that the artist is known for—blending abstraction and figuration through a vibrant harmony of color, texture, and emotion. Reflecting his transition from figurative realism to abstraction, this magnificent piece displays a vague figure of yellow flowers on a vase. Here, the artist uses the explosive and bright color of yellow to give warmth to the painting, creating a tone of joy and life to the painting itself. This is then balanced by the cool blue background, suggesting calmness and introspection.. The composition thrives on gestural motion and controlled chaos through the use of colors, as it materializes the  artist's view of art as both a form of discipline and expression. It creates a visual symphony of colors that transforms a supposedly simple image into an emotive, spiritual experience as Malang's abstraction amplifies the vitality of his subjects. (Mark John Castañeda)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Dec. 06, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000

    Cross-Legged Woman signed and dated 5-V-02 (lower right) gouache 19" x 13" (48 cm x 33 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot Mauro Malang Santos' Cross-Legged Woman offers an insight into the artist's ongoing celebration of everyday Filipino subjects through his masterful art form. Elevating the image of women, vendors, and domestic life, Malang transforms the image of a domestic woman into an emblematic figure: intimate and humble yet monumental through form and color. Portraying a stylized woman sitting cross-legged while holding a round basket with fruits inside it. The way the figure is built from flattened geometric shapes and planes— almost cubist-like—evolves the fragmented woman into an iconic and dignified figure that represents and pays homage to the beauty of domestic and humble everyday life. One that Malang seems to respect and celebrate through his magnificent oeuvre. (Mark John Castañeda)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱220,000 - ₱286,000

    Woman signed and dated 21.12.74 (upper right) charcoal on paper 15 1/2” x 24” (39 cm x 60 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Untitled hand-signed (lower right) serigraph 161/167 10” x 14” (25 cm x 36 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    PROPERTY OF A DISTINGUISHED LADY Untitled hand-signed and dated 2001 (lower right) serigraph 30/50 13 3/4” x 17 1/4”( 35 cm x 44cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    PROPERTY OF A DISTINGUISHED LADY Untitled hand-signed and dated 2003 (lower right) serigraph 48/50 15” x 14 3/4” (38 cm x 37 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    PROPERTY OF A DISTINGUISHED LADY Untitled hand-signed and dated 1995 (lower right) serigraph 10/50 19” x 16 3/4” (48 cm x 43 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱15,000 - ₱19,500

    Woman with Fan hand-signed (lower left) dated 1997 serigraph 14/50 16” x 16” (41 cm x 41 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by Artprints Philippines Inc. confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱3,400,000 - ₱4,420,000

    Two Women signed and dated 2006 (verso) oil on canvas 36" x 24" (91 cm x 61 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot In the 2000s, even as the five-decade mark of his career rolled in, Mauro' Malang' Santos remained as passionate as ever, still painting even during his twilight years. He was a renowned Filipino artist celebrated for his canvases that burst with life and color, every shape and brush stroke constituted in an image that proudly presents the Philippines. Despite being a late bloomer in the industry, Malang established his name with colorful canvases mirroring the Philippine life. He painted landscapes, houses, churches, and the archetypal scenarios in the native folks' neighborhoods. Even so, one element was almost present in Malang's paintings—women. He also firmly believed in mastering one image before delving into a different one. Thus, his female figures only started appearing in his canvases in 1977. Two Women, created in 2006, showcased the artist's deft artistry. Bearing his cubistic folds and thick outlines, he presented his women, all in the glory of their elongated necks and thick limbs. Devoid of his kaleidoscopic palette, this piece nevertheless exudes warmth, coming from his figures' emotive expressions and affectionate touch on the child between them. Malang's passion for his work is perhaps the most significant factor in his success. He enjoys what he is doing, and this joy is evident in his works. "I painted for the pleasure of painting," he told Reyes. This enthusiasm and his unwavering artistry solidified his position in the Philippine art scene, making his canvases among the most sought-after works by a Filipino painter. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱500,000 - ₱650,000

    Untitled (Barong-barong) signed and dated 1978 (lower right) watercolor on paper 29" x 21" (74 cm x 53 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE Private collection, Manila Mauro “Malang” Santos holds a distinctive place in Philippine art—not only as a painter of luminous cubist and abstract works, but also as a pioneering cartoonist. He was the first Filipino to publish comics in English, and the first to have his work featured in foreign publications like Pageant in the United States. As a painter, Malang is remembered for works such as Three Women and Mother and Child, which early in his career radiated with bright, affectionate portrayals of Philippine life and culture. Over time, his palette and tone evolved, embracing deeper, more contemplative hues that reflected a shift toward abstraction and emotional complexity. As Arturo Luz observed in Malang: Paintings and Drawings, his art is “a celebration of Philippine customs and rituals, observed with sympathy and insight through the symbols, rites, and fixtures of the contemporary urban environment.” His mastery lies in how his colors glow—stretching across the spectrum with bold, impassioned strokes and a deft, evocative palette. Every Malang canvas feels like a visual feast: layered, resonant, and alive, capturing the very spirit of life as if unfolding before the viewer’s eyes. In this composition, Malang departs from his more familiar figurative scenes, embracing a subdued yet resonant abstraction. The lower half of the canvas is a patchwork of muted geometric shapes—blocks of cream, ochre, rust, and slate interspersed with pockets of bright blue and gold—evoking the texture and rhythm of a dense urban landscape. Above, a hazy cluster of soft, cloud-like forms floats against a pale sky, their blurred edges lending a sense of quiet transience. The contrast between the grounded, quilt-like solidity of the lower section and the ethereal, drifting forms above speaks to Malang’s ability to balance structure with atmosphere, suggesting both the physicality of place and the fleeting quality of memory. (Jed Daya)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱180,000 - ₱234,000

    White Church signed and dated II-X-02 (lower right) gouache 14” x 10 1/2” (36 cm x 27 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jun. 07, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱300,000 - ₱390,000

    Woman signed and dated 28.VII.93 (lower left) pastel on paper 11" x 8" (28 cm x 20 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot   Woman, created in 1993, illustrates a quintessential Malang woman. She has thick limbs, an elongated neck, a taut expression, and is dressed in a traditional Filipiniana with huge sleeves. Moreover, this pastel on paper artwork powerfully demonstrates Malang’s decades-long exceptional artistry and versatility. He is known for his dauntless color palette, making expert use of any color to give life to his images. Arbitrary and harsh, yet carefully placed strokes are also a distinguishing feature of Malang’s canvases. “I painted for the pleasure of painting,” Malang once said in a conversation with Cid Reyes. Indeed, there are no hints of pressure or obligation in his artworks; he painted because he wanted to, and he painted what he wanted to. This enthusiasm and his unwavering artistry solidified his position in the Philippine art scene, making his canvases among the most sought-after works by a Filipino painter. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jun. 07, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱6,000,000 - ₱7,800,000

    Sleeping Child signed and dated 9.IV.99 (lower right) oil on canvas 36" x 36" (91 cm x 91 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot   A Filipino through and through, Mauro Malang Santos’ artworks reflect the rich Filipino culture and tradition. His decades-long career has produced diverse works, each echoing our deep connection to our roots. Malang’s early beginnings as an illustrator have honed his understanding of space and color, making expert use of his canvases’ every nook and cranny. Sleeping Child demonstrates Malang’s unwavering talents and skills, nearly five decades after his debut in the art scene. As the title suggests, this oil painting focuses on a child having a peaceful slumber on his mother’s lap. It bears the artist’s signature geometric forms and brilliant palette, and features plants and women, recurring elements in Malang’s oeuvre. Painted in 1999, this art piece is a testament to Malang’s mastery of color. He skillfully balances cool and warm tones, using kaleidoscopic hues to illuminate his figures and strategically placing them against a deep blue and green background that resembles plants blending into the night. Furthermore, Malang’s dexterous brush strokes add a textured look, resulting in an image akin to a pastel drawing. Belonging to Malang’s collection of mother and childthemed works, Sleeping Child radiates a profound sense of warmth and familiarity. It captures the close familial relationships ingrained in Filipino culture, evoking a comforting sense of nostalgia. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jun. 07, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱6,000,000 - ₱7,800,000

    Family Vendors signed and dated 7.VII.82 (lower right) oil on canvas 42 3/4" x 42 3/4" (109 cm x 109 cm) Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot Malang’s creations focus on plants, women, sundry images of people’s daily lives, and his famed barung-barong. Family Vendors, painted in 1982, is a quintessential Malang masterwork. It bears his signature overlapping planes, fragmented forms, and gem-toned palette while depicting vendors and women, recurring elements of his paintings. In this oil on canvas piece, Malang’s masterful colorwork made his subjects stand out: using vibrant hues to portray his women, and situating them against a dull-colored background, demonstrating his reputation in the art scene as a master colorist. In 1981, a year before the creation of the work at hand, the Museum of Philippine Art held an exhibition that showcased Malang’s 25-year history and legacy in the art scene. This event highlighted the master painter’s evolution and development as an artist, from a former cartoonist to one of the most celebrated artists of his time. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jun. 07, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱1,400,000 - ₱1,820,000

    Woman signed and dated 1994 (lower right) oil on canvas 24" x 16" (61 cm x 41 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank the West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot PROVENANCE West Gallery   Starting his artistic journey as an illustrator, Mauro Malang Santos never ceases in his artmaking, even several decades later. His evolution and development as an artist are apparent in the body of works he left behind: paintings and sketches of different subjects and mediums. Moreover, he was a Filipino through and through, a master colorist who exhibited his proficiency in using a variety of tints and shades to present the Philippine landscape and everyday life. Malang’s burst of color and Filipino sensibility are evident in this 1994 oil painting of a woman—one of the artist’s recurring subjects. With a long neck, thick limbs, and a taut expression, this female figure is unequivocally a Malang woman. His brilliant play on color and shapes managed to characterize a dejected woman regardless of his bright- colored palette. Aside from his dauntless colorwork, Malang is also notable for his commendable for his overlapping forms and strokes. But despite their overlapping and gem-toned qualities, Malang’s canvases do not appear overwhelming to the eyes. Instead, they complement one another, resulting in art pieces that can stir the audience’s emotions, bringing forth even those hidden deeply within. Additionally, the familiarity of his subjects is what makes his paintings relatable and engaging. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    May. 03, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱160,000 - ₱208,000

    Bricked Church signed and dated 1988 (lower right) gouache 14” x 11” (36 cm x 28 cm) León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Mag-Iina
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Mag-Iina

    Est: ₱4,000,000 - ₱5,200,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Mag-Iina signed and dated 2000 (lower right) oil on canvas 30" x 30" (76 cm x 76 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot Mauro Malang Santos’s evolution and development as an artist are apparent in his decades-long collection of works in varying mediums: oil, tempera, gouache, acrylic, watercolor, and charcoal. While Malang’s works focus on Filipinos at work and their daily lives, two particular images–either of them–never leave his masterpieces: plants and women.   Malang’s Mag-Iina presents a succeeding generation of mothers and daughters: the grandmother is at the center, and on both sides are her daughters, one of whom is holding a child of her own. With their big limbs and taut expressions–the usual face of Malang’s figures–the women are all facing front as if looking directly into the spectator’s eyes.   This 2000 oil on canvas piece illustrates Malang’s exceptional artistry, even after nearly five decades since his debut in the art scene. His palette and ingenious placement of colors made his figures stand out: the women dressed in white and set against a colorful background. The entirety of this painting radiates a sense of warmth and familiarity, mirroring the close familial relationships in Filipino culture. With this as an example, Malang’s works are indeed a vivid portrayal of Filipino culture and tradition.   Malang’s passion for his work is perhaps the most significant factor in his success. He enjoys what he is doing, and this joy is evident in his works. “I painted for the pleasure of painting,” he once said in a conversation with Cid Reyes. This enthusiasm and his unwavering artistry solidified his position in the Philippine art scene, making his canvases among the most sought-after works by a Filipino painter. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Five Women
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Five Women

    Est: ₱1,700,000 - ₱2,210,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Five Women signed and dated 1996 (lower right) oil on canvas 18" x 24" (46 cm x 61 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot In the 1990s, Mauro Malang Santos reached the peak of his career and more. The megastar of the Philippine art scene, as critic Cid Reyes described him, mastered multiple mediums, creating a kaleidoscope of works that depicted Filipino life and culture in a way that is equal part vibrant and local.   This 1996 piece features Malang’s signature big-limbed and geometric women. Standing shoulder to shoulder, these five women stand with their hands crossed over their laps as they stare balefully at the audience, with the woman standing in the center holding the shoulder of the child in front of her. Malang’s women occupy the majority of the space as they stand with their heads and shoulders almost brushing the edge of the canvas.   However, the focal point of this piece is the colors. Malang’s colors sing; though he had never dwelled on his color sensibilities, he had described it as largely instinctive. This intuitive approach to colors and palettes led to Malang’s exuberant painting style.   “There is no color he avoids, no hue or shade he cannot orchestrate in his palette,” Cid Reyes wrote in 1992.   In this piece, he strayed from his bold and bright colors into acidic ones. Battery yellow against highlights of pitch black and neon greens created a vibrant work that is equal parts nostalgic and futuristic. “Maturity, not age” is what he attributed to his exceptional growth and skills, and indeed, Malang’s persistent pursuit of his muse yielded to an illustrious career and a mastery of his craft, as evidenced by the lot in hand. (Hannah Valiente)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Mother and Child
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Mother and Child

    Est: ₱400,000 - ₱520,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Mother and Child dated 1995 (lower right) oil on canvas 9" x 23" (23 cm x 58 cm)   León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot   Like his contemporaries and their predecessors, Malang also explored the mother and child theme, infusing it with an essentially Filipino flavor. Malang’s “master colorist” reputation is once again manifested in this 1995 oil on canvas work. The figures, with their elongated necks, thick limbs, and taut expressions, are brought to life by the use of light, yellowish colors set against a monochromatic green background resembling leaves. The mother, carrying a basket of fruits while delicately holding her child, is a poignant representation of the Filipinos’ hardworking nature and deep familial affection. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Fruit Vendor
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Fruit Vendor

    Est: ₱600,000 - ₱780,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Fruit Vendor signed and dated 1997 (lower right) acrylic on wood 15" x 20 1/4" (38 cm x 51 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot   “Like the megastar of Philippine show biz.” This was how the critic Cid Reyes described Mauro Malang Santos in the 1990s. “There is only one artist who, by popular acclaim remains… a number one,” he claimed.   Indeed, Malang’s career by this time has been sailing at an all-time high for four decades. He utilized different mediums, whether it be oil, charcoal, acrylic, or gouache, and handled it to a point of mastery. “It’s the handling that varies, and ako na lang ang nakakaalam kung ano ang diperensya, which one is more difficult,” he said, as recounted by Alya B. Honasan in Art Without Rules.   “Maturity, not age,” he added.   His 1997 Fruit Vendor had truly shown Malang’s maturity. The subject matter features one of Malang’s favorites: the woman and the Filipino. Here, he depicts his woman with his signature big limbs and big hands and big feet. She sits with her legs crisscrossed and in front of her are slices of watermelon. His women have served as an interesting and dramatic stud for him throughout the years with this 1997 work possessing some sort of attitude as she frets over her fruits. The woman’s cartoonish proportions take up the majority of the space, metaphorically and literally taking back the space she is denied, both socially and artistically. Like many of his women, Fruit Vendor’s titular vendor is unafraid to occupy both space and attention and she creates a world fashioned after the artist’s own work: angst-free and happy. (Hannah Valiente)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Red Landscape
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Red Landscape

    Est: ₱3,000,000 - ₱3,900,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Red Landscape signed and dated 1967 (lower right) oil on canvas 27" x 39" (69 cm x 99 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot   Provenance: Private collection, Manila     The Inner City at Sunrise    The 1960s marked Malang’s rise to prominence with his celebrated barung-barong series. Characterized by his signature varying and overlapping geometric shapes overcrowding his canvas, this 1967 oil on canvas work reflects Malang’s early beginnings as a cartoonist. Moreover, this shows the artist’s gradual shift to abstraction, developing his own style.   Malang’s impressive colorwork has distinguished him among Filipino artists. Regarded as a master colorist by critics, colleagues, and clientele alike, Malang’s dauntless utilization of colors is on full display in this piece. With his red and black-dominated palette, Red Landscape reflects the rather dark and grim side of his famed barung-barong series, which usually sports a colorful, upbeat palette. These shabby, congested shanties depict city life’s relatively bitter and poor qualities, in contrast to the pastoral landscapes depicting the glorious countryside life.   Nevertheless, this piece is undeniably a Malang landscape—evident in his employment of space. “The format is generally restricted to an almost bilateral division of space: the city and the sky,” Juan Gatbonton’s description of Malang’s landscapes in Malang: Paintings and Drawings. “The city is depicted as a congestion of forms, densely packed and flattened out into interlocking patterns of color,” he added. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - a.) Still Life b.) Untitled c.) Woman Vendor
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - a.) Still Life b.) Untitled c.) Woman Vendor

    Est: ₱700,000 - ₱910,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) a.) Still Life signed and dated 1986 (lower right) gouache 13 1/2" x 11" (34 cm x 28 cm) b.) Untitled signed and dated 1986 (lower right) gouache 13 1/2" x 11" (34 cm x 28 cm) c.) Woman Vendor signed and dated 1985 (lower right) gouache 13 1/2" x 11" (34 cm x 28 cm)   León Gallery wishes to thank West Gallery for confirming the authenticity of this lot In the 1980s, even as the three-decade mark of his career rolled in, Mauro Malang Santos remained as passionate as ever. Starting his artistic venture as an illustrator, Malang’s sensitivity veered into the cartoonish and the bright, with his work eventually evolving into lyrical semiabstraction and beyond.   These three works encapsulate the epoch of Malang’s Filipino-ness. A self-taught artist, Malang’s metamorphosis from cartoonist to illustrator to painter signifies a turn to a true Filipino essence if there is one. His works have long since carried that Filipino stamp, with E. Aguilar Cruz stating in 1973: “[While] Malang’s art is as unlike those of the traditional schools represented by Amorsolo…they both bear the same stamp of that quality Filipino art lovers mean when they say ‘Filipino.’”   Malang’s in-depth understanding and masterful utilization of colors have earned him a reputation in the art scene as a “master colorist,” a nickname given to him by his peers, critics, and patrons. His art is distinguished by his fearless use of color, unafraid to incorporate any shade in his arbitrary geometric shapes and strokes but still able to depict and exude varying emotions. Consequently, despite its gem-toned quality, his canvases do not appear overwhelming to the eyes.   While these works lack the standard folk objects, Malang’s Filipino sensibility is still in full display three decades since his painting pivot — evident through his soft yet vibrant figures: flowers, women, and vendors. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Flowers
    Feb. 22, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) - Flowers

    Est: ₱160,000 - ₱208,000

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017) Flowers signed and dated 1995 (lower right) gouache 14" x 11" (36 cm x 28 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery and signed by the artist confirming the authenticity of this lot As a predominantly Catholic country, the Philippines commemorates the founding of the Holy Cross through the Santacruzan, a procession involving personalities from the Bible, with Queen Helena at the end, holding the cross. Another event that coincides with this is the Flores de Mayo, honoring the Virgin Mary by offering prayers and flowers. Both occasions happen in May when the flowers are in abundance.   A Filipino through and through, Malang’s oeuvre never fails to epitomize the country’s rich culture and traditions. Painted in the month of the Flores de Mayo celebration, Malang’s Flowers are in full bloom. His mastery of gouache and cool-toned palette created an assemblage of beguiling flowers, all in great finesse. The artist’s haphazard but delicately layered brush strokes and eccentric splats of paint added a mysterious flair to his canvas, leaving his viewers in wonder and enchantment, alongside feeling a deep connection to the cultural significance of his art. (Jessica Magno)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱50,000 - ₱65,000

    UP Series signed and dated 2002 (lower right) mixed media 8” x 7 1/2” (20 cm x 19 cm)

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱80,000 - ₱104,000

    Untitled signed (lower left) dated 1948 (lower right) ink on paper 12” x 10” (30 cm x 25 cm)   Accompanied by a certificate issued by West Gallery confirming the authenticity of this lot

    Leon Gallery
  • Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Mauro Malang Santos (1928 - 2017)

    Est: ₱120,000 - ₱156,000

    Untitled signed and dated 1992 (lower right) gouache 8 3/4” x 6” (22 cm x 15 cm)

    Leon Gallery
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