A rare Moroccan wares collection, one of the few surviving examples from the 17th century, was sold at a Christie’s auction in London for a record-breaking price, marking a significant moment in the world of art history.
The collection, which comprised of five Moroccan wares and a rare Moroccan wares dish, is said to date back to the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727). Morocco wares were highly prized luxury ceramics in 17th century, often used in high-end palaces and as gifts for royal visitors.
Christie’s auction house, a leading international art auction house, held a live auction at its London saleroom on Tuesday evening. The rare collection was expected to fetch anywhere between £500,000 and £700,000, based on pre-sale estimates. However, the final auction price more than tripled this projection, selling for £2.5 million.
Bidders at the auction were drawn to the significance and rarity of the Moroccan wares collection, which is believed to be one of the few remaining complete sets of its kind. Art historians and collectors alike are rare examples of Moroccan wares, with many fragmented pieces scattered throughout museums and private collections.
Among the highlights of the collection was a rare Moroccan wares dish in the shape of a shell, adorned with intricate Islamic calligraphy. This piece was particularly significant, as it showcased the advanced techniques and craftsmanship of the Moroccan ceramics of the time.
According to Dr. Rachel Silvera, a leading expert on ancient ceramics, the collection is a testament to the wealth and sophistication of the Moroccan palaces during the 17th century. The collection’s sale has raised the bar for rare art pieces, with many collectors and dealers now eyeing similar rare Moroccan wares collections for future auctions.
Morocco wares are highly prized among art collectors and dealers due to their rarity, beauty and historical significance. The recent sale of the rare Moroccan wares collection is expected to set a new benchmark for similar art pieces, drawing interest from a wider audience of collectors.
With the sale of the Moroccan wares collection, Christie’s has cemented its position as one of the leading auction houses in the world, showcasing some of the rarest and most valuable pieces of art in the world. As art historians continue to study and learn more about the Moroccan ceramics of the 17th century, this sale serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and significance of rare art pieces in the art world.
