Photo: dafbeirut.org / Mohamed Melehi, Morocco 1982
This November, Christie’s will auction an exceptional assembly of artistic marvels from the celebrated Dalloul Collection. Titled ‘Marhala – Highlights from the Dalloul Collection,’ this much-anticipated event is poised to become a landmark moment in the records of Arab art auction history. With 48 exceptional works gracing the sale, this event is a tribute to the legacy of Middle Eastern creativity and ingenuity.
Art connoisseurs and collectors will be enthralled by the breathtaking array of artistic gems encompassing luminaries such as Mahmoud Said, Mohamed Melehi, Etel Adnan, Samia Halaby, Dia Al Azzawi, Inji Efflatoun, and Ibrahim El-Salahi. Among the crown jewels, Mahmoud Said’s “Fille a l’imprime” is anticipated to steal the spotlight, with an estimated value ranging from $455,000 to $715,000. Additionally, Marwan Kassab-Bachi’s striking pieces, including “Kopf links gedreht” and the rare “Marionette,” are expected to captivate art enthusiasts with their profound symbolism and evocative expressions.
The Dalloul Collection, a treasure trove of contemporary Arab art spanning six decades, is a testament to the enduring passion for creativity nurtured by the Dalloul family. Originally founded by the visionary Ramzi Dalloul and Saeda El Husseini Dalloul, the collection has evolved under the guidance of their son, Basel Dalloul, and the Ramzi and Saeda Dalloul Art Foundation (Daf) based in Beirut. In a poignant reflection on the collection’s significance, Basel Dalloul shared, “My father was a visionary art collector, who continued to collect until his passing in 2021. I continue his legacy of collecting and am committed to supporting new and emerging talent across the region while bringing these masterpieces to the attention of a new generation of collectors around the world.” This heartfelt commitment underscores the Dalloul family’s enduring dedication to fostering artistic talent and ensuring its perpetual legacy.
The allure of the Marhala auction extends beyond its London inauguration. Select pieces were recently showcased at Frieze London, captivating a diverse audience of art enthusiasts. As anticipation builds for the auction, a curated selection of artworks will be on display at Christie’s Dubai branch from October 23 to 26, followed by a London preview from November 1 to 8, offering a captivating glimpse into the timeless elegance and cultural depth encapsulated within the Dalloul Collection.
