Against the backdrop of Diriyah’s historic At-Turaif district, a historic first is about to unfold. On Feb. 8, global auction house Sotheby’s is stepping onto Saudi soil for Origins, the Kingdom’s inaugural international auction.
Sotheby’s Saudi debut will unfold in two parts, featuring fine art from both established Saudi artists and celebrated international names. In addition, the auction will encompass an array of luxury items—from jewelry and watches to rare cars, sports memorabilia, and designer handbags. Prior to the event, all items will be on display in a free public exhibition, open from Feb. 1 to 8.
Sotheby’s is flexing its full spectrum, bringing everything from avant-garde digital pieces to high-wattage luxury—rare watches, iconic sports memorabilia, and couture that belongs in museums rather than closets. It’s a playground for collectors, whether seasoned sharks or wide-eyed first-timers.
Sotheby’s has long been actively involved in several art initiatives across the kingdom. The auction house was a key supporter of Saudi Arabia’s first Contemporary Art Biennale in 2022 and its Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah the following year, where the auction house provided expert-led panel discussions, talks, and guided tours. This year, Sotheby’s deepened its commitment by partnering with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation for its 2024 program via talks and workshops led by industry experts.
The timing couldn’t be more fitting. With Saudi Arabia’s art scene in hyperdrive, bolstered by initiatives like the Diriyah Biennale and AlUla’s ever-growing cultural footprint, the auction signals a new chapter.
Keep scrolling to discover all the items held for Sotheby’s Saudi debut:
Ahmed Mater, Untitled (diptych from the Illumination Series) est. $30,000-40,000
Hermes Limited Edition Sterling Silver Kellymorphose Sac Bijou Kelly Argent, 2021 est. &50,000-70,000
Andy Warhol,Spaceship, est. $150,000-250,000
Robert Indiana, Amor, est. $220,000-280,000
Pablo Picasso Fleurs, 1948, est. $50,000-70,000
Fernando Botero, Society Woman, est. $800,000-1,200,000
Bvlgari Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond Necklace, est. $100,000-150,000
Fouad Kamel, Portrait of a Woman, est. $50,000-70,000
Christiano Ronaldo 2024 UEFA Jersey, est.$50,000-70,000
Yoyin Ojih Odutola, Unspoken Satisfaction, est. $300,000-700,000
Cartier Crash: A Commissioned Piece Unique Yellow Gold Asymmetrical Wrist watch, circa 2007 est. $130,000-260,000
Also Read:
Do Poor People Deserve to Wear Tabis Too?
7 of the Most Expensive Sneakers Auctioned in History
Dubai’s Solid Gold Shoe is Officially the World’s Most Expensive