FAQ

What types of work are presented at Tehran Auction ?

Tehran Auction solely presents works of modern and contemporary visual art including painting, sculpture, photography, and calligraphy painting. It also presents works of Iranian classical masters, such as Kamal-ol-Molk, his student, and artists of his generation. Any work of art, historic object, or artifact that does not fall under these categories will not be accepted for presentation at Tehran Auction.

Who can propose an art piece to Tehran Auction ?

Works of art can be proposed to Tehran Auction by three types of entities:

  1. Entries from collectors – collectors must submit documents that prove ownership and history of the work and its suitability for the art market
  2. Entries from galleries – galleries may present works of artists who have established markets in Tehran and are known by other galleries and collectors
  3. Entries from Artists – pioneering artists who do not work with any particular art gallery can directly propose their work to Tehran Auction. Other artists can only enter through galleries or collectors

What are the selection criteria ?

he artist must be a distinguished figure in the art world. The work needs to be of superior quality among other works of the artist. It must have been presented at galleries and/or other auctions in Iran and abroad. There must be a great demand for the work.

What is the definition and main difference between classical, modern, and contemporary art ?

The following definitions are for Tehran Auction selection purposes.

Classical art includes works of Kamal-ol-Molk and his students; works belonging to Kamal-ol-Molk’s School of Painting, which paved the way for transition from centuries of Persian miniature-style painting to modern art. Exceptional works by artists who lived during Kamal-ol-Molk’s time as well as other modern paintings and “coffeehouse” school of painting may be presented in this section

Modern art refers to Iranian art of the last century, introduced in the 1940s. Searching for fresh ideas in modernism, Iranian artists have presented a new language for art and artistic expression in art.

Contemporary art encompasses modern approaches to art as well as new methods of artistic creation that ignore the structure of modern art and offer fresh themes and a new language for artistic expression. In addition to works of prominent contemporary artists, works of older generation of artists with post-modern qualities are considered contemporary art.

Can traditional works and handcrafts (mosaic work, fretwork, earthenware, glassware, carpets, old Persian paintings and classical calligraphy, etc.) enter the auction ?

No! Old Persian paintings and artifacts, which are traditional works, are not suitable for auction. Only modern paintings and calligraphy are acceptable.

When and where are auctions held ?

Tehran Auction holds two auction events a year at the Azadi Hotel in Tehran. The first auction covers works of modern and classical art. It is held in early summer. The second auction includes works of contemporary art and is held in early winter. The exact time and location of the two auctions is announced on the website.

Which art galleries work with Tehran Auction ?

Tehran Auction does not work with any particular art gallery. Any art gallery, inside and outside Iran, can present works of artists with established market. Tehran Auction may or may not accept an offer. It reserves the right to choose the best proposal.

What type of artists are eligible to enter the Tehran Art Auction?

Works of artists in various fields of visual arts who have already held solo and group exhibitions in Iran or other countries and have an established market can enter the auction.

How are the works selected ?

Entries must be submitted through an application form, which can be found on our website https://tehranauction.com/en/register-to-sell/. The form contains artist and work information, work image, owner or presenter’s information and personal data. Experts at Tehran Auction examine the work to ensure a strong market interest and offer their valuation to the owner. Upon a final agreement, Tehran Auction and the owner sign a contract, containing the terms and conditions of presentation and sale of the work.

Who are the team members who select the works ?

Tehran Auction selection team includes distinguished professionals in the field of visual arts who may consult peer experts outside the selection team.