London - Arabstoday
Christie\'s will in April celebrate the exquisite craftsmanship of art produced since the 9th century with a particular focus on Islamic art. According to the organisers, the sale comprises 300 lots expected to realise in the region of £7 million ($11 million). Islamic Art Week will also offer a private collection donated for the benefit of the University of Oxford. Other dedicated sales will include oriental carpets, books and works of art and textiles, giving the buyers an extraordinary opportunity to build a collection or decorate a house. The sale of Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds includes a large collection of Ottoman Turkish art, including over 20 pieces of Iznik pottery. Other Turkish highlights include a number of Qurans, including one from 1829 signed by Muhammad Al-Wasfi. A highlight of the Indian art sale is a selection of Mughal art, including a jade-hilted dagger with the original blade. The sale of Oriental rugs and carpets on will feature approximately 240 carpets, mainly from Persia, including examples by the most famous weavers, along with Caucasian and Turkish rugs.