Sotheby’s will host a groundbreaking first-ever international auction in Saudi Arabia’s history. Titled Origins, this exclusive two-part evening auction promises a diverse collection, offering over 100 lots for both novice and experienced collectors. The event will showcase fine art, digital works, luxury items, and more, with a focus on local and global masterpieces.
The auction will feature works by both home-grown Saudi artists and iconic international names such as René Magritte, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Damien Hirst. Among the offerings are significant pieces from art movements like Impressionism, Surrealism, and Modernism, alongside contemporary works from artists such as George Condo and Nicholas Party.
The Origins auction spans various realms of luxury, including watches, handbags, jewellery, and sports memorabilia, all meticulously curated to attract a wide range of collectors.
Ahead of the auction, the pieces are displayed in a free public exhibition at Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace until February 8. This exhibition will coincide with the annual Diriyah Season, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region through immersive experiences and world-class retail and dining options.
Taking place in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the auction reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing cultural influence on the global stage. The setting, steeped in history, offers a fitting backdrop for an event showcasing the finest in both art and luxury, including an awe-inspiring light installation by James Turrell and a unique sculpture by Alexander Calder.
The auction features the first-ever ceramic work by Lebanese poet, writer, and painter Etel Adnan, titled Staring at the Sun (estimate: $150,000–200,000), created in the final year of her life.
Alongside this piece, works by Sarah Al-Quatil, including The Release of the Dead (estimate: $80,000–120,000) from the 1960s, and Secret of the Cube (estimate: $80,000–120,000) will also be offered.
Arab artists represented in the sale include Ahmed Mater, Fouad Kamel, Abdel Hadi El Gazzar, and Mahmoud Mokhtar.
Luxury watches are a highlight, with pieces by Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, and Rolex on offer. The top lot among the watches is a unique prototype Richard Mille watch (estimate: $1,000,000–1,500,000) worn by Olympic sprinter Yohan Blake.
The auction also includes a stunning pair of Harry Winston Ruby, Turquoise, and Diamond Earclips (estimate: $35,000–55,000), epitomizing the exuberant style of the 1960s, and a Ruby and Diamond Bracelet attributed to Harry Winston (estimate: $210,000–300,000), crafted circa 1972 and notable for its impressive flexibility.
Among the most sought-after items is a Michael Jordan 1998 NBA Playoffs “The Last Dance” Game-Worn Jersey (estimate: $800,000–1,200,000), an iconic piece from the basketball legend’s career. Moreover, the auction offers a selection of jerseys worn by Cristiano Ronaldo, who made headlines in 2023 by moving to Riyadh to play football.
Taking place on February 8, the line-up has several more rare and coveted items.
