Christie’s Dubai opens exhibition of rare Islamic auction highlights

Christie’s Middle East and North Africa has just opened an exhibition of auction highlights including some stunning works of art from the Islamic world and from India

A carefully curated exhibition showcasing exceptional auction art highlights has opened at Christie’s Dubai and it’s open to the visiting public.

The exhibition includes a diverse range of items and many works of art from reflecting the tastes of discerning Middle Easter collectors such as Old Master and European paintings from the likes of Sir Anthony van Dyck and Jean-Francois de Troy.

Other pieces include an exceptionally rare Royal Mughal Pashmina Carpet from India, woven in 1650 for Indian Emperor Shah Jahan which hasn’t been seen in any exhibition since it was last displayed at the Metropolitan Museum in New York in 1998. It is estimated at $2.7 to $3.8 million.

According to Christie’s, demand for Islamic art from the 9th century to the contemporary period is growing around the world. A number of auctions coming up at Christie’s in Dubai will include pottery from Ottoman Turkey from the 16th century, as well as rare and important Arabic Qur’an scrolls from the 14th century, a painting by master artist Reza ‘Abbasi, and stunningly preserved Our’an manuscripts from the 9th century.

“This carefully curated selection of important works on exhibition at Christie’s Dubai reflects the discerning taste of collectors across the MENA region, who appreciate the very best quality, artistry, and extraordinary craftsmanship represented by these works across categories,” said Arne Everwijn, Director of Business Development Middle East and North Africa. “It is a great honour to be able to showcase these works in Dubai for the first time.”

The collection of sale highlights at Christie’s Dubai is open to the public until October 3 at Christie’s DIFC, Gate Village 5.