Explore the Rich Tapestry of Islamic and Asian Art
On December 14, 2024, Apollo Art Auctions is set to host a momentous event, presenting a remarkable sale that traverses the intricate history of Islamic, Indian, and Chinese art. This engaging auction features a diverse selection of 348 carefully curated lots, showcasing the aesthetic and cultural significance of these artworks spanning from around 3000 BC to the 19th century AD. This live gallery auction will also offer online bidding, providing a global audience the chance to acquire these exceptional pieces.
A Glimpse into the Auction Highlights
The auction will present a variety of historically significant pieces, with a notable emphasis on Islamic artistry. Key highlights include an extraordinary 7th-8th century Sogdian silver incense burner, artistically shaped as an elephant complete with a rider, bearing the Arabic signature of the artisan, Fazil or Faisal. Measuring 10.2 inches in height and 35 inches in width, it exemplifies intricate craftsmanship with floral motifs that reflect the grandeur of Asian palace art. The opening bid for this magnificent artifact is set at £400,000 ($510,282).
Additionally, attendees can expect to find an impressive early-14th-century molded pottery tile wall panel adorned with a breathtaking turquoise and cobalt blue palette. This large piece features floral relief and customary cobalt-blue glazed sections that echo the opulence of Islamic architecture. Its opening bid is £20,000 ($25,520).
Diverse Cultural Representations
Expanding beyond Islamic art, the auction includes a selection of artworks from Tibetan and Indian cultures. Noteworthy is a Nepalese Licchavi Period gilded bronze bodhisattva from the 9th-10th century, highlighting the maturation of Himalayan Buddhist aesthetics. This piece, previously belonging to a UK collection, will also initiate bidding at £20,000 ($25,520).
Provenance and Historical Significance
Each lot in the auction bears prestigious provenance, with many artworks having been owned by distinguished collectors such as Henri René d'Allemagne and the Marquis de Ganay. The collection also comprises Chinese artworks from renowned estates, ensuring that each piece carries a story worth telling.
Event Details and Participation
The live auction will commence at 1:00 PM GMT (8:00 AM US Eastern Time) at Apollo Art Auctions' gallery located at 63-64 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SW. Interested bidders can preview the artworks from December 9 to December 13, between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, by appointment only. Bidding will be available through Apollo’s online platform as well as LiveAuctioneers, accommodating bidders from all over the world.
Payments can be made in GBP, USD, or EUR, and noteworthy is the fact that no import charges will be applied on most antiquities shipped to the US. In-house specialists will meticulously handle packing and shipping, ensuring that all treasures are securely prepared for their new homes.
For More Information
For inquiries or to learn more about the auction highlights, prospective bidders can contact Dr. Ivan Bonchev, the director of Apollo Art Auctions, at +44 7424 994167 or via email at
[email protected]. For detailed auction information, visit
www.apolloauctions.com.
This event promises to be a captivating journey through time and culture, celebrating the beauty and depth of Islamic, Indian, and Chinese art. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this extraordinary auction experience!