Sotheby’s to host historic "Origins" auction in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia on February 8

 

Sotheby’s to host first-ever auction in Saudi Arabia 

Sotheby’s is making history with its first-ever international auction in Saudi Arabia. Scheduled for February 8, the “Origins” auction will be held at Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Riyadh, marking a significant milestone for the art world in the Middle East. This landmark event coincides with the opening of Sotheby’s new branch in the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower, designed by Norman Foster.

An Unparalleled Celebration of Art and Culture

The "Origins" auction will feature an eclectic array of 100 lots, blending Western and Arab art, luxury items, and sports memorabilia. Headlining the event are iconic pieces such as René Magritte’s L’État de veille (1958) and Fernando Botero’s Man on Horse sculpture, both estimated at $1 to $1.5 million USD.

 

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Other highlights include George Condo’s On the Lookout and Andy Warhol’s Elizabeth from the Reigning Queens series, a work that gained notoriety after a botched robbery last year. The auction also embraces cutting-edge innovation, showcasing digital masterpieces like Refik Anadol’s AI-generated landscape painting and James Turrell’s mesmerizing light installation.

Spotlighting Arab Artistic Pioneers

"Origins" celebrates the depth and diversity of Arab art, featuring groundbreaking works by regional icons. Highlights include Louay Kayyali’s Then What?? (1965) and Samia Halaby’s Blue Trap in a Railroad Station (1977), which earned a special mention at the Venice Biennale.

This curated selection provides a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire works that honor the region’s cultural richness while shaping its artistic future.

Sports Memorabilia Meets Fine Art

In a unique twist, "Origins" brings iconic sports memorabilia into the spotlight alongside fine art. Featured items include Michael Jordan’s jersey from the 1998 NBA Playoffs and Cristiano Ronaldo’s jersey worn during the 2024 UEFA European Championships. These rare collectibles add an exciting dimension to the auction, captivating sports fans and collectors alike.

 

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Diriyah: A Historic Venue for a Landmark Event

The choice of Diriyah as the venue underscores Sotheby’s dedication to celebrating Saudi Arabia’s heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking backdrop for the auction, blending history and modernity in perfect harmony.

The event also highlights Sotheby’s commitment to the region, marked by the opening of its new branch in Riyadh’s Al Faisaliah Tower, further solidifying the auction house’s presence in the Middle East.

Public Exhibition and Participation

Before the auction, all 100 lots will be displayed in a free public exhibition at Bujairi Terrace from February 1 to 8. This offers art lovers a unique chance to view the pieces up close before they go under the hammer.

Collectors and enthusiasts can find more details about the auction and its offerings on Sotheby’s official website. Whether attending in person at Diriyah or participating remotely, the "Origins" auction promises an unforgettable experience for the global art community.

A Celebration of Heritage, Innovation, and Legacy

More than an auction, "Origins" is a celebration of creativity, heritage, and innovation. By uniting works from diverse cultures and eras, Sotheby’s bridges traditional and contemporary art. The inclusion of digital works and sports memorabilia alongside fine art reflects its forward-thinking approach to curation.

Don’t Miss This Historic Event
Witness history in the making at Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace from February 1 to 8 for the public exhibition and join the live auction on February 8. With its diverse lineup of iconic artworks, pioneering Arab pieces, and rare memorabilia, Sotheby’s "Origins" auction is poised to redefine the art world’s relationship with Saudi Arabia.

Source: https://stupiddope.com/