The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is bringing cooperation with prestigious auction houses Christie's and Sotheby's in Great Britain to a new, strategic stage of development. This cooperation is an important step in preserving cultural heritage, promoting it internationally, and introducing the rich history and art of the Uzbek people to the world community.
Chairman of the World Society for the Study, Preservation and Popularization of the Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan, Head of the Center Firdavs Abdukhalikov held meetings with representatives of "Sotheby's" - Maryam Kalo, Edward Gibbs and Benedict Carter, as well as representatives of "Christie's" - Margo Oganesian and Sarah Pambley. During the meetings, prospects for cooperation, interaction in auction activities, and the return of historical artifacts related to the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan to our country were discussed.
34 lots related to the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan were selected at the auction held at "Sotheby's" on April 29-30, 2025. Also, on May 1, at the Christie's auction, proposals were made for 14 historical artifacts, and agreements were reached on their official purchase. These lots are planned to be added to the exposition of the Center of Islamic Civilization.
Both auction houses initiated the organization of charity auctions in cooperation with the Uzbek side. In September of this year, an international charity auction is planned in partnership with Christie's. It is also planned to organize an exhibition of artifacts related to the heritage of Uzbekistan in Great Britain.
Cooperation with these auction houses creates broad opportunities for preserving the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, demonstrating it on global platforms, and conveying its significance to the international community.