The Center of Islamic Civilization is elevating its cooperation with prestigious auction houses to a new level

The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is advancing its cooperation with the world’s largest and most prestigious auction houses - Christie’s and Sotheby’s, both based in the United Kingdom to a new, strategic level of development. This collaboration represents a significant step toward preserving cultural heritage, showcasing it on an international scale, and promoting the rich history and art of the Uzbek people to the global community.

The Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, held meetings with representatives of Sotheby’s Maryam Kalo, Edward Gibbs, and Benedict Carter as well as with representatives of Christie’s Margo Oganesian and Sara Pumbley. During these meetings, the parties discussed prospects for collaboration, mutual engagement in auction activities, and the repatriation of historical artifacts related to Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage.

At Sotheby’s auctions held on April 29–30, 2025, a total of 34 lots related to Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage were selected. Additionally, on May 1, proposals were submitted for 14 historical artifacts at a Christie’s auction, and agreements were reached regarding their official acquisition. These lots are planned to be included in the exhibition of the Center of Islamic Civilization.

Both auction houses have expressed their initiative to organize charity auctions in collaboration with Uzbekistan. In September of this year, a special international charity auction will be held in partnership with Christie’s, during which historical items will be purchased by sponsors and donated to the Center. Sotheby’s is also planning to organize a dedicated charity auction to commemorate the official opening of the Center of Islamic Civilization.

The parties have also planned a visit by the Center’s delegation to the United Kingdom. During this visit, the delegation will closely familiarize itself with the operations of Christie’s and Sotheby’s, strengthen collaborative ties, and organize an exhibition titled “Artifacts of Uzbekistan’s Heritage”.

The cooperation between the Center of Islamic Civilization and these prestigious auction houses creates extensive opportunities for preserving Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing it on global platforms, and conveying its significance to the international community. This partnership not only facilitates the return of cultural assets but also contributes to their scientific and curatorial study and serves as a means of presenting the nation’s history to the world.