Sale of Indian, Himalayan art in New York in September

New Delhi: Bonhams, arguably the world's largest auctioneer of fine art and antiques, has announced that their upcoming 'Indian, Himalayan and Southeast Asian Art Sale' will be held in New York on September 14.

A part of the funds raised would be used for rebuilding Nepal, which had suffered a deadly earthquake in April.

With over 123 lots and estimates of $2-3 million, the sale is expected to have a range of Himalayan bronzes and 'thangkas', Indian stone and Indian miniatures.

Mark Rasmussen, the head of sale in Indian, Himalayan and Southeast Asian Art at Bonhams in New York, said, "This sale comprises another tight grouping of works, selected for their quality, that particularly appeals to the buoyant markets today."

In a release, the auction house said the highlights of the sale include a magnificent gilt copper alloy figure of Chakrasamvara Tibet, 15th century, estimated between $400,000 and $600,000.

This piece, which expresses one of the most important transcendental ideals in Buddhist art, is known to be a masterpiece of Tibetan sculpture.

"As media attention naturally shifts to newer tragedies, we hope the needs of the people will not fade from public consciousness, and we are keen to support those committed to the rebuilding of Nepal," Rasmussen said, adding that a section of funds from the sale will be used for the same.

(IANS)