Indian Works of Art

This Indo-Portuguese ivory inlaid rosewood side table had last been sold in 1950 when it was bought by the ceramicist Eric James Mellon (1925-2014) while an art student in London.

While May’s series of UK Asian art auctions lacks the overall focus of the Asian Art in London initiative in the autumn or the pomp of other spring events in New York or Hong Kong, it remains a key moment in the calendar.

A newly discovered prime period untitled work by Indian Modernist Akbar Padamsee (1928-2020) established a new house record for Roland Auctions in Glen Cove, New York, on March 28.

The primary draw to a sale at Roland Auctions (30% buyer’s premium) was a series of lots benefiting Columbia University.

Expect records to tumble in the market for Indian art and antiques in 2026.

A selection of upcoming auction highlights

Artist survived a shipwreck but then spent a decade creating portraits and views of the local landscape

This unusual 19th-century Indian enamel-on-copper footed bowl soared to 26 times its top estimate at Lindsay Burns (22% buyer’s premium) in Perth.

Latest sales suggest a wider collector base targeting history and topography

The second designated Islamic & Indian Art auction held by Lyon & Turnbull (26/25% buyer’s premium) in London included a group of market-fresh Indo-Portuguese mother-of-pearl vessels.

A painting by Indian Modernist Kovalezhi CS Paniker (1911-77) soared to over 40 times estimate at Roseberys.

For Amersham Auction Rooms, it was just another house clearance.

Father and son collection stars as centrepiece of 150-lot inaugural Islamic and Indian art offering