Sotheby's London said it plans to put a range of modern and contemporary Arab and Iranian art works on sale at its outlet on October 4.

Comprising 123 lots, the sale will include major works by leading Modern masters such as Louay Kayyali, Fateh Moudarres and Aref el Rayess, as well as key pieces by some of the foremost contemporary artists such as Farhad Moshiri,  Ziad Antar and Yousef Nabil.

The sale will also be highlighted by seven Iraqi works, including a work by Jawad Salim. The sale is expected to realize in excess of £2.5 million.

Commenting on the sale, Lina Lazaar, deputy director and International Specialist, Sotheby’s Middle East, said: 'We are very pleased with the timing of our sale in the lead up to London’s Frieze Art Fair, as its mood of experimentation and atmosphere of openness will allow us to offer a range of works by artists new to Sotheby’s.'

'This is an exciting time when the market is more open to seeking out new talent and we are pleased to present a sale which is inclusive of both modern and contemporary artists. The sale will offer a group of 10 Contemporary Iranian works which were generously donated by the artists themselves and will be sold in support to Kids Company,' Lina noted.

'Following on from the success of Sotheby’s 2010 Contemporary Arab and Iranian sale, Sotheby’s is delighted to present two works by Sohrab Sepehri and Bahman Mohasses,' she added.

Besides, this a selection of calligraphic works, including works by Iranian artists Ebrahim Olfat and Mohammed Ehsai, and Tunisian artist Nja Mahdaoui will also be put up for sale.

The sale will also include a section of 10 Contemporary Iranian works donated by artists which will be sold to benefit children’s charity Kids Company, Lina said.

Founded by Camila Batmanghelidjh in 1996, the charity provides practical, emotional and educational support to vulnerable children and young people, she added.-TradeArabia News Service