Many factors are involved in holding an auction, which most are hidden from the eyes of an observer. When a work of art is presented in a prominent auction, the arrangement of the work in the pre-auction show and catalog, the auctioneer, and even the emotions that are aroused during the process, all become very important. In the following, we will discuss some of these factors that...

This fall, Sotheby’s is showcasing several important private collections at the heart of its bi-annual 20th Century Art/Middle East sale. From pioneering modernist masters to groundbreaking contemporary artists, one of the binding principles guiding these female-led collections are passion, dedication and the connections and conversations incited by powerful works. It is rare to be...

It has been seen frequently that in international Islamic art auctions such as Christie's, Sotheby's, Bonhams and Chiswick, Iranian works from the Safavid and Qajar periods have been presented and sold. Some of these works are part of the property of a European person, and some are placed next to other lots without provenance. From tiles, metalwork, pottery, carpets, to very exquisi...