The Sotheby’s Arts of the Islamic World sale opens in London tomorrow with a collection of antiques spanning over 1000 years. The jewellery items such as the lion-form earrings from 12th century Persia and a large gem-set and enamelled gold necklace with hanging rosettes from Morocco during the 18th century sheds new light on ancient Islamic craftsmanship and even illustrates the influence the designs of the past on modern jewellery today.
Also in the sale, which includes 237 objects is a life- size portrait of Persian ruler Fath ‘Ali Shah worth between £1,500,000-2,500,000, an important Iznik pottery tile depicting the Ka’ba and an eleventh-century rock crystal chess piece.
Benedict Carter, Head of Auction Sales, Middle East, said that the sale “offers opulent and luxurious objects befitting the world’s finest collections”. He added that the Turkish works are especially notable, as well as the array of Indian jewellery, jade and silver. “The sale reflects the remarkable scope of artistic production and craftsmanship in Islamic culture.”
* Arts of the Islamic World; rare and precious works of art spanning 1000 years: Treasures from Persia, Egypt, Spain and the Ottoman World takes place tomorrow April 9th at Sotheby’s in London.
