Tehran’s 22nd Auction Shatters Records with $2.5 Million in Sales!

On Friday evening, the 22nd Tehran Auction made headlines with an impressive sales total of $2.5 million (2.25 trillion rials). This much-anticipated event, themed “Modern, Classic, and Traditional Iranian Art,” took place at the Parsian Azadi International Hotel in Tehran. The auction was skillfully conducted by the renowned voice-over artist and actor, Shahryar Rabbani, according to reports from Mehr.

This year’s auction featured an extensive collection of 99 artworks, capturing the attention of art enthusiasts. The diverse lineup included:

• 69 paintings
• 10 calligraphy pieces
• 9 sculptures and engraved metalworks
• 6 manuscripts
• 6 pictorial carpets

Of these, a remarkable 84 artworks were sold, underscoring the event’s success and the growing appreciation for Iranian art among collectors.

One standout aspect of the 22nd Tehran Auction was the inclusion of works by prominent modernist artists such as Aydin Aghdashloo, Mohammad Ehsaei, Mansoor Ghandriz, Jazeh Tabatabai, Hossein Kazemi, and Behdjat Sadr. This blend of modernism with classical Iranian art highlights the dynamic nature of the country’s artistic landscape.

Moreover, the auction served as a celebration of Iran’s rich artistic heritage. It featured exquisite Persian miniature paintings that spanned from the Safavid era to contemporary works. The calligraphy section showcased pieces from the Timurid period to the present, reflecting the deep-rooted tradition of this art form throughout Iran’s extensive history.

In total, 34 bidders took part in the auction, with an exciting note that eight of these buyers were entering the art market for the first time. This influx of new participants is a positive indicator of the vibrant interest in Iranian art.

The auction also revealed some impressive sales figures. The highest-grossing piece was the painting titled “Portrait of a Seated Girl” by Reza Abbasi, which sold for an astounding $264,000 (224.4 billion rials). Following closely was a pair of engraved candlesticks by Hossein Alaghmandan, which fetched $134,588 (114.4 billion rials). The third place was a tie between two paintings: “Genesis” by Mahmoud Farshchian and “Forgiveness” by Wahed Khakdan, both selling for $121,647 (103.4 billion rials).

Established in 2012, the Tehran Auction is the first of its kind in Iran, designed as an independent and private initiative aimed at showcasing the best of Iranian art. Its mission is to connect established and emerging Iranian artists with art collectors and a global audience. The auction plays a pivotal role in addressing the increasing interest in modern and contemporary Iranian art, facilitating the acquisition of high-quality works through reliable channels.

As the event continues to gain traction, it highlights the remarkable potential of Iranian art on the global stage. The strong participation and positive reception demonstrate a promising future for both collectors and artists alike, contributing to the cultural tapestry of Iran.

With each passing year, the Tehran Auction not only enhances the visibility of Iranian artists but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich artistic traditions. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and vibrant future of Iranian art.

In conclusion, the success of the 22nd Tehran Auction marks a significant milestone in the journey of Iranian art, showcasing its evolution and the passionate community that supports it.