Sotheby’s kakes history with first-ever international auction in Saudi Arabia

For the first time in Saudi Arabia’s history, Sotheby’s is set to host an international auction, bringing an extraordinary collection of fine art, luxury, and collectables to Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace. Titled ‘Origins’, this landmark event on 8 February will feature 100 exceptional lots, offering both seasoned and new collectors a chance to acquire rare masterpieces.

_{^{Ahmed Mater Illumination Diptych (Makkiah Tale). Image Courtesy: Sotheby’s}}

A Spectacular Public Exhibition Ahead of the Auction
Ahead of the auction, the Origins collection is currently on view in a free public exhibition at Bujairi Terrace, running until 8 February. Visitors can explore an extraordinary array of art, jewellery, watches, and collectables in a setting that blends history with modern luxury. This showcase coincides with Diriyah Season, an annual cultural festival that celebrates the rich heritage of the region through immersive events and experiences.

_{^{Abdulhalim Radwi, Untitled. Courtesy of Sotheby’s}}

What to Expect at Sotheby’s ‘Origins’ Exhibition:
-Masterpieces by Over 50 Artists, including René Magritte, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Wassily Kandinsky, Toyin Ojih Odutola, and Fernando Botero
-Prominent Saudi and Arab Artists, such as Mohammad Al Saleem, Abdulhalim Radwi, Louay Kayyali, Huguette Caland, and Samia Halaby
-Immersive Art Installations, featuring outdoor sculptures, a light installation by James Turrell, and a monumental digital artwork by Refik Anadol
-Luxury Showpieces, including jewellery by Cartier, Bulgari, and Van Cleef & Arpels, rare watches from Rolex and Audemars Piguet, and ultra-coveted Hermès handbags
-Exclusive Sports Memorabilia, with items from legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Jordan

_{^{Mohammed Al Saleem, O’ God, Honor Them and Do Not Honor an Enemy Over Them. (Photo by Amal Alhasan/Getty Images for Sotheby’s )}}

Diriyah: A Fitting Setting for a Historic Moment
The auction will take place in Diriyah, the ancestral heart of Saudi Arabia and home to the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif District. As a world-class cultural hub, Diriyah provides the perfect backdrop for this groundbreaking auction, merging Saudi Arabia’s rich history with its dynamic vision for the future.

Don’t miss this milestone moment in the art world! To view the Origins catalogue and explore the featured lots, visit www.sothebys.com/Origins.

Exhibition Location: Welcome Hall, Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah. On view until: 8 February (check Sotheby’s website for opening hours)