Christie’s is gearing up to host a groundbreaking auction featuring jewels from the prestigious Al Thani Collection, a curated selection of nearly 400 stunning pieces that offer a glimpse into the opulent world of Indian royalty during the Maharajas era. Scheduled for June 19 as part of the landmark “Maharajas & Mughal Magnificence” auction, this event is highly anticipated by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Among the remarkable items up for bidding is a captivating ibex-headed carved jade cup dating back to 1660-1680, estimated to fetch an impressive $1.0 million to $1.5 million. The collection also includes pieces from the 20th century created by renowned jewelry houses such as Bulgari, Cartier, Janesich, and Lacloche, showcasing a beautiful fusion of Indian and Western designs.
One of the standout pieces is the Patiala Ruby Choker, an exquisite necklace commissioned by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh and crafted by Cartier in 1931. Adorned with rubies, diamonds, and pearls, this masterpiece is expected to sell for $1.2 million. Additionally, a dazzling devant-de-corsage brooch by Cartier featuring two stunning diamonds weighing 34.08 and 23.55 carats is projected to fetch between $10 million and $15 million.
While Christie’s has not disclosed a total estimate for the auction, speculations suggest that “Maharajas & Mughal Magnificence” could fetch tens of millions of dollars, possibly surpassing the record-breaking sale of Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection in 2011. The auction, featuring a diverse range of offerings from $10,000 to $10 million, has generated excitement among collectors worldwide.
The Al Thani Collection auction on June 19 in New York City is not just a chance to acquire extraordinary jewelry pieces but also an opportunity to support the initiatives of the Al Thani Collection Foundation. The proceeds from the auction will bolster ongoing projects such as exhibitions, publications, lectures, and museum endeavors globally, making this auction a unique occasion to own pieces of historical and cultural significance.
To learn more about the Al Thani Collection and the upcoming auction, visit Christie’s website and discover the world of Maharajas and Mughal Magnificence.
