Sotheby’s

Photo: instagram.com/nadineghosnjewelry
Sotheby’s is set to launch its first-ever modern and contemporary jewelry collection on March 13 in Dubai with jewelry designer Nadine Ghosn. This will mark the first time that an auction house has ever presented such a series; one that highlights emerging and artisan contemporary fine jewelers.
The launch of the series being held in Dubai does not come as much of a surprise. Why? As Paul Redmayne, senior vice president of luxury sales at Sotheby’s Dubai, put it, “Dubai is a place that is permanently at the intersection of the present and the future, always looking forward and hungry for new ideas to challenge the status quo. It was therefore the most obvious location in which to anchor and launch our first Modern and Contemporary Jewellery Series.”
Photo: instagram.com/nadineghosnjewelry
Ghosn, an award-winning contemporary jewelry designer known for making ordinary products extraordinary, has been chosen as the inaugural guest of the series. Many might recognize the designer as the favored choice of celebrities like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and the iconic Karl Lagerfeld or from well-known pieces such as the hamburger ring or the ‘ShutUp’ earrings.
With roots in the Middle East, Ghosn seems excited to have her first-ever exhibition in the region. The designer commented, “I’m thrilled to be the first guest designer to Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary Jewellery Series and to launch it officially in Dubai. It is my very first time exhibiting in the Middle East, and it is truly exciting.”
Buyers will also have the chance to witness the unveiling of her latest collection, Youtensils. The collection stays true to Ghosn’s philosophy of always celebrating the ordinary by taking inspiration from our everyday meals – the act that often brings us together. Each piece is a playful iteration of everyday utensils such as forks, spoons, and straws. From a fork bracelet with spaghetti strings welded onto the prongs to a delicately crafted straw bracelet adorned with pink sapphires, the collection is anything but ordinary.
Photo: instagram.com/nadineghosnjewelry
Despite becoming quite well-known since its launch six years ago, Nadine Ghosn Fine Jewelry remains artisanal to its core. This is a brand that stands as a testimony to the fact that emerging designers around the world can feature a high level of craftsmanship that gives them the ability to rival the haute jewelry houses of Bond Street or Place Vendôme. This is the same phenomenon that Sotheby’s hopes to highlight with this latest series which is why Nadine Ghosn will be followed by other contemporary designers such as Ralph Masri, Tomasz Donocik, and Studio Ren amongst others.
Visitors to the innovative selling exhibition will be able to view and purchase pieces on-site or online at sothebys.com.
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Photo: Cedric Ribeiro. Courtesy of Sotheby’s
With colored diamonds being all the rage these past few years, Sotheby’s is set to unveil the Golden Canary in Dubai, UAE today. Weighing 303.10 karats, the deep brownish-yellow gem is one of the largest polished diamonds in the world, and the “largest flawless or internally flawless” diamond ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America.
The historically remarkable gem was once known as the Incomparable Diamond, weighing just over 407 karats. It was then recut from its original shield shape to a classic pear shape, thus making it deeper in color and brighter in hue. The exceptional gem will travel around the world, making stops at Sotheby’s galleries in cities including Taipei, Geneva, Hong Kong, and will also headline its Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on December 7. With bidding starting at just US $1, it is expected to be valued at $15 million, and offered without reserve.
In the UAE, the global unveiling of the Golden Canary will take place alongside the launch of an exhibition featuring rare luxury items which will be available for immediate purchase. Think, wardrobe treasures like Hermès Birkin and Kelly handbags, which have been transformed by luxury brand Jay Ahr, and are making the Middle East debut. Other highlights of the exhibition open to the public till November 4, are Lebanese jewelry designer Gaelle Khouri’s new collection, and striking contemporary photography by Morocco-born artist Lalla Essaydi.
Photo: Cedric Ribeiro. Courtesy of Sotheby’s
“We have had an exceptional year of presenting extraordinary colored diamonds at our global jewelry auctions, as the demand and appetite for these rarities continue to grow,” stated Quig Bruning, head of jewelry for Sotheby’s America’s. “Just two weeks after the record-breaking sale of the Williamson Pink Star for $57.7 million, we are honored to offer the largest polished diamond in present existence to appear at auction. Steeped in history, The Golden Canary is one of the most exquisite diamonds to ever be discovered, not only for its sheer size and intensity in color, but for its stunning beauty that is sure to captivate collectors around the world. Sotheby’s is privileged to help write the next chapter for this incomparable, reborn gem.”
Katia Nounou Boueiz, head of Sotheby’s UAE adds,  “We are excited to continue to celebrate the UAE as the ultimate destination for lovers of luxury, with the global unveiling of a gemstone of such extraordinary calibre alongside a selling exhibition curated by our team here on the ground.”
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Hind Rostom
Taking a stride down the Golden Age of Egyptian cinema with her playful blonde curls, piercing gaze, and bold attitude, Hind Rostom was renowned for her passion for collecting fine jewelry. Whether it was of globally sourced diamonds, rubies, or custom-made bangles, Rostom was no stranger to auction houses. Let alone have her pieces showcased in the world’s premier destination for auctioning art and luxury, Sotheby’s. Digging into some overdrafts, all pieces auctioned at the house were sold as part of the Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels Part II on November 11.
Showcased in the house were eight jewelry pieces, including a wide link bracelet embellished with a bed of diamonds and emeral, a pair of diamond ear clips, and a necklace set marked by Chatila.
Necklace set by Chatila
The link bracelet sold for $57,627, the Chatila diamond necklace for $30,186, and the ear clips for 20,160 Francs.
Diamond Ear Clips by David Webb, 1960s

Collet-set of baguette diamonds and calibre-cut emeralds
After being dubbed as the Arab world’s answer to Marilyn Monroe, Hind Rostom refused the title and preferred a title that follows the kin of the love of her life. “Madame Fayyad” she picked, as it indicated a sense of work and responsibility instead of “Queen of temptation.” However, her love for jewelry and diamonds was regarded the same as both expressed an infatuation for unique, sparkly cuts.
Hind Rostom
Hind Rostom was also known as the “first lady of Egyptian cinema”, as she starred in more than 80 films during the golden age of Arab cinema. Always taking on roles of intelligent, witty, independent, and strong characters along with characters like Farid Shawqi and Omar Sharif, Rostom defied stereotypical gender roles at that time and stood as an icon for feminism. However, Rostom retired from her acting career in 1979, and no project could get her working again, declaring that her life was “not for sale.” At the age of 81, Rostom died of a heart attack, making her an icon for powerful femininity in the region.
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A new Sotheby’s exhibition underscores the UAE as a destination for exceptional jewelry making.
Hashi Promise Me Perfection Rings. Photo: Courtesy of Hashi
Sotheby’s Dubai’s Made in the Emirates exhibition, on this month from October 4-7, will showcase the works of some of the Gulf’s most exciting emerging jewelry design talent while celebrating developments in the region’s creative scene. The inaugural show will highlight Dubai’s potential as a hub for innovative jewelry craftsmanship, as well as offer a tantalizing glimpse at some of the famed auction house’s most exciting international offerings. The Emirates as a destination for jewelry production is booming. “Certain techniques, such as enameling, were previously only possible in other locations, but these designers featured at the auction have helped bring such craftsmanship to the UAE. Now, the full creative process can be completed right here, from start to finish,” says Sophie Stevens, jewelry specialist at Sotheby’s MENA. “Sotheby’s decided that now is the perfect time to take a closer look at the jewelry emerging from the Emirates and to talk about it to a broader audience. It is about time that the incredible craftsmanship that happens here was elevated onto an international platform.”
Ginea Gold Coin Pendant with Diamond Frame. Photo: Courtesy of Yataghan Jewellery
Made in the Emirates will feature UAE-based brands Savolinna, Gafla, Yataghan, Misk, Susana Martins, and Hashi. The pieces are influenced by local and global contemporary and historical design,ranging from traditional Emirati elements and themes to international classics such as art deco. Many of the designs were only made possible thanks to the latest technological advances that have recently appeared in the region. Complementing the jewelry will be a collection of works by Emirati artists represented by art research and collecting platform Engage 101.
Savolinna Ferox Lobe Studs with Emerald and Diamonds. Photo: Courtesy of Savolinna
“What better way to kickstart the season than with a celebration of regional art and jewelry, alongside an exciting program of events including panel discussions,” states Katia Nounou Boueiz, head of Sotheby’s Dubai. “The exhibition brings the best of the Emirates under one roof at the same time as our international auction highlights, in a curated one-stop destination for lovers of art and jewelry alike. It’s the perfect opportunity for young collectors looking to acquire and acquaint themselves with new and celebrated artists from the Emirates. “Made in the Emirates will run concurrently with a traveling exhibition of highlights from Sotheby’s forthcoming international auctions of jewelry, Indian, and Islamic art, and contemporary Middle Eastern art, combining an exciting international offering with local pieces. Of particular interest are the highlights of the Magnificent Jewels auctions in New York and Geneva. This selection includes colored diamonds and gemstones alongside historical designs by Bulgari, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels.
Susana Martins The One Toi et Moi Ring. Photo: Cortesy of Susana Martins
The regional jewelers taking part in the exhibition represent some of the most exciting talents from the Gulf. Hashi Jewellery was founded by Hamda Al Mansoori in 2013 and has its own factory in Dubai.“Hashi creates classic pieces with a contemporary twist using the finest diamonds and colored gems,” says Stevens. Portuguese trained goldsmith and gemologist Susana Martins’ eponymous brand is influenced by the art deco era and highlights the coming together of architecture and design. “Susana has worked in jewelry manufacturing in the UAE for close to a decade and was instrumental in bringing a number of high jewelry craftsmanship skills to the region, such as manual enameling,” says Stevens. Savolinna, which was founded by Hessa Al Shafar, is another Dubai-based firm focused on contemporary styles and exceptional craftsmanship. “Uncompromisingly feminine, Savolinna represents all that Hessa is passionate about: design, emeralds, and exquisite craftsmanship. Savolinna’s pieces are inspired by the cultural diversity Dubai has to offer, seamlessly merging with the demands of modern life,” notes Stevens. Saudi firm Yataghan creates fine jewelry designs in its Dubai atelier, bringing together calligraphy and geometric designs full of regional elements, including Saudi gold coins with gem-set pendants. Misk Jewellery, founded by Maher Khansaheb, adapts “Emirati heritage for the contemporary jewelry collector,” according to Stevens, and Gafla Jewellery’s pieces are also informed by its Emirati heritage, including their pearl Bahar designs inspired by the Gulf ’s history with the jewels – Dubai having once thrived from its abundance of natural pearls.
Yataghan Chandelier Diamond Earrings. Photo: Courtesy of Yataghan Jewellery
The Gulf has long been known for its love of stunning jewels and gemstones, but before the arrival of new techniques and the influx of talented designers, many buyers used to shop outside of the region. “Before, people used to travel abroad in search of perfect craftsmanship, now we have the same quality being offered here. Why not display that craftsmanship through the eyes of designers with different backgrounds, exposing the talent behind locally produced pieces?” notes Khansaheb. Now is an exciting time for jewelry production in the Emirates and Dubai sits at the heart of this upturn. With new techniques arriving on the scene, an influx of regional and international abilities, and the rise of local
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Originally published in the October 2021 issue of Vogue Arabia

At the end of the Chanel Haute Couture Fall 2017 show, Karl Lagerfeld was awarded the Grand Vermeil Medal by Mayor Anne Hidalgo
Items that once belonged to late designer Karl Lagerfeld are set to be auctioned across Europe. In a series of eight auctions, Sotheby’s will sell his estate which includes collectibles, fine art, furniture, personal items, and the possessions of his beloved cat Choupette.
Lagerfeld at Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2017 show, walking with Hudson Kroenig, the son of Brad Kroenig – one of Lagerfeld’s long-standing muses-in the Chanel SS 2011 show. Hudson walked with Lagerfeld during his last runway for Chanel.
The auction house stated, “Sotheby’s is paying tribute to this genius of a designer with the sale of over 1000 lots from his residences in France and Monaco, an anthology of his personal taste but also of his life and career. Divided between Monaco, Paris, and Cologne, the sales are in his image, multiple and surprising, telling the story of the couturier, the collector, the decorator, and the photographer.”
Carla Fendi, Life President of the Board of Directors for the Fendi Group of companies with Creative Director of Fendi, Karl Lagerfeld, 1992. Getty
Noteworthy items include art from Takashi Murakami, champagne buckets by Martin Margiela, chrome dumbbells by Aston Martin, a Zenith Chair by Marc Newson, as well as the famed Jeff Koons painting Dom Perignon Balloon Venus. Also on auction are his personal items such as linens, and Rolls Royce cars. The clothing lot includes his trademark fingerless gloves, suit jackets, and accessories from designers Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, Comme des Garçons, and a jar containing starched, white collars synonymous with Lagerfeld’s distinct personal style.
Lagerfeld was the creative director of Chanel, from 1983 till his passing in 2019. Alongside that, he also had his highly regarded eponymous label and was also the creative director at Fendi.  The auctions for his items will be commencing in Monaco from December 3-5, Paris on December 14-15, and Cologne, with dates yet to be announced for the same. There will also be an online auction with two sessions from November 26 to December 6, and December 6-16.
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The custom-made Elie Saab dress, worn by actor Emma Stone to the 2015 Oscars, is available at Sotheby’s To Beirut with Love auction. Photo: Courtesy of Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s has announced its plans for a charitable auction in order to raise funds for Beirut. The auction, titled To Beirut with Love will feature a handful of extraordinary items, including a custom Elie Saab dress, worn by award-winning actor Emma Stone to the 2015 Oscars.
The British-founded auction house has partnered with two nonprofit organizations, Creatives for Lebanon and Art for Beirut to develop the To Beirut with Love initiative, in order to support those affected by the Beirut explosion. The sale will be open for bidding from December 7 to December 15, where a number of handpicked donations from iconic artists, celebrities, and fashion and jewelry designers will be on offer.
The star of the auction is noted to be a breathtaking gown by Lebanese couturier, Elie Saab. The pale-green sequined dress features an open back and a thigh-high slit and was worn by Stone, at the Oscars ceremony in 2015 where she was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Birdman. The stunning gown is estimated to sell for between £20,000 to £30,000 ($26,700 to $40,025).
A silk haute couture gown designed by Egyptian actor Sherihan, worn in her Thousand and One Nights Fawazeer show in 1987, is available in the To Beirut with Love auction. Photo: Courtesy of Sotheby’s

Other remarkable fashion items include singer Madonna‘s matador-inspired outfit created by Lebanese designer Nicolas Jebran; and Geri Halliwell’s sequinned number worn in the music video for the Spice Girl‘s debut single Wannabe. Additionally, a silk haute couture gown designed by Egyptian icon Sherihan, for her Thousand and One Nights Fawazeer show in 1987, has been donated alongside Lebanese singer Majida El Roumi‘s unique sky-blue embellished dress from her wardrobe collection.
Woven yellow gold My Dior cuff, designed by Victoire de Castellane. Photo: Courtesy of Sotherby’s

Leading the jewelry line-up is the unmissable My Dior cuff and British-artist Damien Hirst‘s gold pill bracelet with diamond skull. The eye-catching gold My Dior bracelet, designed by artistic director of Dior Joaillerie, Victoire de Castellane, features a dazzling array of diamonds and colored gemstones and is expected to generate at least £30,000 to £50,000 ($40,025 to $66,700). Elsewhere Hirst’s playful bracelet, created in 2015, reflects the theme of pharmaceuticals, which is often present in contemporary artist’s work.
Among many of the captivating artworks is a photograph taken from the Suit Egyptienne series by leading Lebanese photographer Fouad Elkoury. British supermodel Naomi Campbell has also donated one of her favorite portraits, an image of herself shot by photographers Rocco Lapasta and Charles DeCaro, that is estimated to sell for £3,000 to £5,000 ($4,000 to $6,671).
Portrait of model Naomi Campbell, photographed by Rocco Lapasta and Charles DeCaro. Photo: Courtesy of Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s has confirmed that all the proceeds from the auction will be shared among five charities that are providing relief to Beirut following the tragic port explosion in August. The five charities chosen by the initiative are Nusaned, Beit El Baraka, Baytna Baytak, Al Fanar, and House of Christmas.
“Lebanon is home to an artistic community whose contributions to the cultural landscape cannot be overstated,” says Sotheby’s chairman for the Middle East, Edward Gibbs. “The explosion in the port of Beirut this summer sent shockwaves through the city and the world, impacting every sector of society in Lebanon with countless tales of loss, damage, and displacement. Sotheby’s has come together with our partners to host the auction, To Beirut with Love, to provide much-needed relief and funds to aid the healing process.”
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