On April 24 and 25, Indians will have the opportunity to get their hands on some rare antiquities and miniature paintings. Collectibles Antiques, a licensed antique dealer, is hosting a 24-hour online auction featuring 55 lots. Powered by Saffronart, it has Natesan’s Antiqarts as official consultants. Artefacts on offer include a stone sculpture showcasing Buddha’s first sermon, a portrait of the Mughal emperor Humayun, miniature paintings, bronzes, terracottas, wood, stones and Tanjore paintings, dating from 1500 BC to 1880 AD.
“This auction is part of our long-term commitment to provide connoisseurs in India with access to the finest works of art and collectibles. We expect a strong response from buyers,” says Dinesh Vazirani, director, Collectibles Antiques, adding that the bust of Goddess or Yakshi in Motion will be the cheapest item to be auctioned and is estimated at Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000. On the other hand, A Warrior in Action will be the most expensive at Rs 10 lakh to Rs 14 lakh.
The registered items in this auction are sourced from private collectors and licensed antique dealers in India. All the lots included are registered with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and are accompanied with a registration certificate showing their trail of ownership. According to the ASI, they cannot be exported out of India. “We offer only registered antiquities. Bidders must have a valid Indian address (for registration and delivery), and must pay in INR,” says Vazirani.
Portrait of Humayun
A large and detailed portrait of Mughal emperor Humayun, which dates back to the 19th century is estimated at Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. Humayun is shown seated regally on his throne against a bolster. He has a slim-bearded face and wears a full-sleeved jama with rich embroidery. This painting has a broad border, gold-speckled with Persian calligraphy seen relating to the date of his birth, accession, full name and date of death.
Portrait of Humayun
A large and detailed portrait of Mughal emperor Humayun, which dates back to the 19th century is estimated at Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. Humayun is shown seated regally on his throne against a bolster. He has a slim-bearded face and wears a full-sleeved jama with rich embroidery. This painting has a broad border, gold-speckled with Persian calligraphy seen relating to the date of his birth, accession, full name and date of death.
The sale will take place online on April 25-26. Collectors place bids on saffronart.com, or via their iPad, Blackberry and iPhone.
Buddha’s first sermon
Amongst the highlights of the auction is a 9th century stone sculpture from Nalanda depicting Buddha’s first sermon. Its estimated cost is Rs 8 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. Created during the early reign of the Pala dynasty, this sculpture represents the most important event in the life of Buddha. It shows Buddha delivering the sermon upon attaining enlightenment and travelling to Sarnath.