Fernando Zobel de Ayala y Montojo (Spanish/Filipino, 1924-1984), “Plaza de Pilatos I,” oil on canvas abstract painting, with artist signature “Zobel” and Spanish inscription lower right. English translation: “Afternoon light in the face of Pilate (Casa de Pilatos) from the window of my study, seen through the square, Seville, 31 of December 1972”. Additionally signed, titled, and dated en verso. Housed in molded, silvered and gilt wood frame. Sight – 31 1/8″ H x 38 3/4″ W. Framed – 33 1/2″ H x 41 1/8″ W. Biography: Manila-born, Harvard-educated artist Fernando Zobel de Ayala y Montojo was not only a painter but also an important patron of the arts, collector, teacher, photographer, and writer. As an artist, Zobel is best known for abstractions that reflect the dual influences of Abstract Expressionism (particularly the works of Mark Rothko ), and Japanese and Chinese painting and calligraphy. Zobel was extremely active in the Manila art scene in the late 1950’s. He served as the President of the Philippine Art Association, and because of Zobel’s urging and vision, in 1967 the Ayala Foundation established the Ayala Museum, which focuses on Philippine art and culture. Zobel won several international art prizes, and his work is in the collections of museums including the Ayala Museum and National Museum of the Phillipines; Biblioteca Nacional, Madrid; the Museo de Arte Abstracto, Spain; The British Museum in London; and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. (Case wishes to thank John Seed, Professor of Art at Mt. San Jacinto College, for the use of his biographical information on Zobel for this catalog entry). Provenance: From the estate of Robert L. Zarbock, Escondido, California. After graduating from the University of Illinois School of Music, Zarbock became a producer of symphonic operatic music at RCA Record’s Victor label for many years. Upon retirement, he settled in California, where he served on the San Diego Opera Guild and the California Center for Arts. Proceeds to benefit Zarbock’s alma mater, the University of Illinois. (Note: see also two drawings by Zobel in this auction). CONDITION: Overall very good condition. Some slackness in lower right quadrant (needs restretching) and upper left quadrant, scattered very light craquelure, a few scattered minor accretions, scattered minor abrasions to exterior edges of frame.