Sotheby's auction to feature calligraphy

Manama: A Sotheby's auction that traces the developments of the Arabic script and carries a pre-sale estimate of more than $4 million (Dh14.6 million) will be held in Qatar next month.

The calligraphy auction Hurouf: The Art of the Word on December 16 will showcase works by more than 65 artists from 24 countries, with 82 pieces for sale.

The pieces are contemporary interpretations of calligraphy, Sotheby's said. "The auction is described as part of Doha Capital of Arab Culture 2010 celebrations."

Highest calibre

Hurouf: The Art of the Word traces the developments of the Arabic script from its inception, with kufic leaves dating from the eighth century, through popular calligraphy of the 19th century to the highest calibre works by international calligraphers working today," Sotheby's said.

In selecting of the most talented and revered calligraphers working with Arabic script from Japan, US, Turkey, the Middle East, China and the subcontinent, the auction aims to represent the developments of an art form that has entered its second millennium, it said.