S
otheby’s is delighted to present a live auction of Ancient Sculpture and Works of Art occurring at our London New Bond Street premises on 3 December. The sale is led by three Roman torsos, including one sold to benefit the Tavitian foundation, as well as a fine selection of Attic vases, and Hellenistic and Roman bronzes. Joining these important works are a diverse array of fine Egyptian, Near eastern and Classical sculpture in stone, alabaster and bronze, as well as a selection of objects at an accessible price point for both new and seasoned collectors.
Sotheby's is pleased to present three Roman marble sculptures from the collection of Aso O. Tavitian (1940-2020). Mr. Tavitian focused his philanthropy on efforts to achieve world peace, particularly in the Armenian region, on the arts and on education. During his lifetime, he funded graduate, post graduate and mid-career education for hundreds of individuals, asking only that they do the same for others should they have the opportunity. The trustees of the Tavitian Foundation will continue to support these philanthropic priorities. During his lifetime, Mr. Tavitian surrounded himself with objects of timeless beauty, which is evidenced in these classical sculptures. All sale proceeds from lots 428, 429 and 430 as well as the sale series "The Vision of Aso O. Tavitian," occuring in February in New York, will benefit the Tavitian Foundation.
One could argue that classical art's greatest legacy is the naturalistic depiction of the idealized human form. This sale finds three compelling examples, two male, one female, of nude torsos rendered in marble. From the subtle sensuality of the soft abdomen of the Dionysos to the senuous curves of Aphrodite to the muscular pectorals of the nude youth or athlete, these sculptures are emblematic of the Classical tradition's reverence for the human body.
