October 27, 2011
On October 27, Tashkent Clock Tower hosted an auction of MEROS Association of Antiques organized in conjunction with Christie’s (UK), the world’s largest auction house. The auction was led by British auctioneer Edward Rising. The lots included traditional and applied art items.
The goal of the auction is to draw public attention to issues in preserving and collecting historical and cultural artifacts, advocate national cultural values, develop auction-related activities in Uzbekistan and contribute to the formation of prices of antiques.
The proceeds from the auction will go toward research and archeological excavations overseen by the MEROS Association in an effort to contribute to the study of Uzbekistan’s historical and cultural legacy. The research involves archeologists, historians, scholars as well as young specialists and history students from Uzbek universities.
Romain Pingannaud, Department of Islamic & Indian Art, Christie's auction house (UK):
- “I specialize in Islamic art, therefore the Orient, and particularly Central Asia with its diverse traditions, culture, architecture and art, is very interesting to me. This region is home to so many beautiful artifacts and antiquities. Uzbek applied art items are of particular interest in the West. What I have seen here today is unique and beautiful.”
