Fatimid Rock Crystal Ewer To Fetch $5.3 million at Christie’s Sale

Fatimid Rock Crystal Ewer

A 1000-year-old carved rock crystal ewer from the Fatimid royal treasury is all set to generate a sale of 3 million pounds ($5.3 million) at Christie’s sale of Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds on 7 October. Dating back to late 10th to early 11th century AD, the Fatimid ewer is one of counted seven fully-carved recognized extant examples and the foremost one to be available for sale in an open market. Undoubtedly, it is a notable occasion for private collectors and institutions across the world. The auction is anticipated to sport an amazing grouping of exceptional artworks ranging from diverse geographical areas, materials and time and is expected to generate over £11 million.

Engraved from an individual piece of flawless rock crystal (hard as toughened steel), the ewers were first unfilled and then carved by hand with astonishing elegance, leaving a surface in the thinner areas that is only a few millimeters wide.

Designed and developed in 1854 by the French silversmith Jean-Valentin Morel, the Ewer is auxiliary embroidered with enamelled gold mounts that is clearly visibile on its right.

Via MiddleEastEvents

This entry was posted by author: Zolamarquis on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008 at 10:16 pm and is filed under Antique, Auctions, You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
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