Sotheby’s Host Auction Featuring Various Artifacts from Islamic world

Sotheby’s London hosted the Arts of the Islamic World & India auction today, featuring 181 lots from diverse cultures and periods, The Value reported. The sale highlights the rich artistic heritage spanning from Spain to Syria.

Among the top lots is a large illuminated Mamluk Qur’an from circa 1477-78, estimated between £300,000 and £500,000. Created by scribe Muhammad Abu al-Fadl ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhab al-A’raj, it showcases intricate calligraphy and decoration characteristic of the Mamluk era. Another highlight is a 13th-century gold and silver-inlaid bronze candlestick, likely from Iraq or Eastern Anatolia, featuring detailed geometric patterns and court scenes with royal symbolism.

The auction features exceptional Islamic artifacts beyond Qur’ans, including a 13th-century gold and silver-inlaid bronze candlestick from Iraq or Anatolia, a rare early 13th-century Raqqa ware tile from Syria, a 14th/15th-century Nasrid wood and bone-inlaid pyxis from Spain, and a 13th-century Almohad brass astrolabe from Morocco.