Jose Rizal’s legacy will play a major role in Leon Gallery’s Kingly Treasures Auction this December, with several rare Rizaliana pieces set for bidding.
The lineup includes first-edition copies of his landmark novels Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891). Leon Gallery history consultant Lisa Guerrero-Nakpil said these works showed Rizal’s sharp political voice and helped set the events in motion that led to his execution in 1896.
Another highlight is Rizal’s rare poetry book for Leonor Rivera. The gallery says it is the only remaining love token he gave her, likely acquired while he was studying in Madrid. Nakpil said the book served as an intimate link between the two, with Rivera often turning to its worn pages for comfort during their long periods apart.
The auction will also include a photograph of Rizal taken by French-Spanish photographer Edgardo Debas. It was originally intended to appear as the frontispiece of El Filibusterismo.
The Kingly Treasures Auction will take place on December 6 at 2 p.m. at Leon Gallery in Makati City.