An auction expected to realise £7-10m (US$11-15m) will take place in London at the end of April, featuring a range of artefacts from the Islamic world.
 The magnificent "Jambiya" dagger |
Comprised of 290 lots, ranging from weaponry to manuscripts, the Sotheby's auction will showcase rare and important works of art.
"We are also delighted to offer Part Two of the highly esteemed Harvey B. Plotnick Collection, which had been assembled over the past two decades with an eye towards excellence and rarity." commented Sotheby's Middle East Department Specialist, Benedict Carter.
This sale will see part two of the Harvey B. Plotnick collection sold, following on from Sotheby's October 2011 sale where the first parts of this important group were auctioned.
A 13th century silver-inlaid basin is set to be the standout item from this collection. Made for Sultan Qara Arslan Ibn II Ghazi, the complete inscriptions have never been seen in public making them of major importance to scholars and collectors alike. The metalwork is estimated at £300,000-500,000.
The undiscovered frontispiece of an important illuminated manuscript will feature as one of many highlights. Leaves from the manuscript are spread between private collections and museums across the globe, ensuring strong interest.
Weaponry will also play an important part in the forthcoming sale, with a sabre and dagger expected as top lots. A magnificent "Jambiya" dagger dating from the first quarter of the 17th century is expected to sell for £400,000-600,000. The dagger features a gold-inlaid jade hilt and a watered-steel blade signed by master craftsman, Faizallah Shushtari. Shushtari was one of the greatest steel-makes of his time and the weapon is considered to be a royal commission.
An Ottoman sabre is also expected to reach a similar price at auction. This astonishing item is set with gold-inlaid jade pearls and turquoise and would have been used for ceremonial purposes. The item is described as a "once-in-a-generation" opportunity for investors.
Paul Fraser Collectibles are pleased to offer a variety of books and manuscripts with great historical importance. This divorce plea from Henry VII captures an event of enormous magnitude.
Recent and related articles
· Warhol Dollar Sign handkerchief up 48.1% on estimate in London | 30 March 2012
· Which market is now up 63% since "the crash"? | 21 March 2012
· Sotheby's revenue up 7% in 2011 thanks to Asian and modern art sales
Your collecting
View our stock items for sale | How to start a collection
Guides and analysis
Investing in Art and Collectibles | 10 reasons to invest in collectibles | Market information & demographics
www.paulfrasercollectibles.com
Images: Sotheby's
