In a move that underscores the evolving landscape of the global art market, Sotheby’s has announced plans to host its inaugural international auction in Saudi Arabia on February 8, 2025. This event follows a substantial USD 1 billion investment from Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, further solidifying Sotheby’s expansion into the Middle Eastern art scene.
The auction, titled “Origins,” will take place in the historically rich town of Diriyah, on the outskirts of Riyadh. This choice of location is significant as Diriyah is part of a major cultural and tourism project aimed at reviving Saudi Arabia’s heritage, making it a fitting backdrop for this momentous event.
“Origins” promises a diverse array of offerings, highlighting both international and domestic talent. Among the anticipated highlights is a diptych by renowned Saudi artist Ahmed Mater from his acclaimed X-Ray Illumination series, created between 2006 and 2017. This series is celebrated for its exploration of cultural identity and the fusion of tradition with modernity.
The auction will also feature a collection of Islamic artifacts, exquisite jewelry, vintage automobiles, and unique memorabilia, embodying the cross-category spirit Sotheby’s has become known for. Ashkan Baghestani, Sotheby’s head of sale and contemporary art specialist, expressed that the auction aims to serve as both an introduction and a celebration of the diverse artistic expressions that bridge cultures.
In the build-up to the evening auction, the pieces from “Origins” will be displayed in a week-long public exhibition in Diriyah from February 1–8, 2025. This exhibition will offer art enthusiasts and collectors a rare opportunity to engage with the works up close, set against the backdrop of Diriyah’s rich historical and cultural tapestry.
Sotheby’s decision to host this event in Saudi Arabia is a testament to the kingdom’s growing influence in the global art world, spurred by its Vision 2030 initiative which seeks to diversify the economy and promote cultural engagement. This auction not only marks a significant milestone for Sotheby’s but also highlights the kingdom’s ambition to become a key player on the international art stage.
As the art world turns its eyes to Diriyah, the upcoming auction is poised to be a defining moment in art history, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation through the universal language of art.
