A remarkable Achaemenid dynasty (553-334 BC) bull figure has sold for $32,200 at Maynards Auctions, US.
The Persian statuette was part of a group of 14 silver pieces owned by the late Iranian philanthropist and collector Mr. Habib Sabet.
 The glorious winged bull crossed the auction block on June 19, leading Maynard's International & Asian Art auction |
Also from the Sabet collection, a bust of a Sassanian king, believed to be Shapur II (A.D. 310-379) sold for $20,700, and the large dish featuring scenes of kingly prowess made $10,925.
Hugh Bulmer, Maynard's Asian art specialist, comments: "These pieces rarely come to market and it was exciting to see the level of participation from all over the world. We hope to offer more international pieces like these in the months to come."
The top end of the Asian collectibles market is influenced by a small number of extremely affluent individuals. However, this number is set to rise.
In 2012, China boasted 154 billionaires. It is predicted that by 2022 this figure will have increased by 214% to 483.
"A whole new sector of the art and antiques trade has sprung up to service this Oriental juggernaut," writes Antique Collecting magazine, "with attendant fairs and specialist events."
See the art and photography items we currently have in stock.
