A Dozen Iraqi Works From The Fadhil Chalabi Collection Return To The Region In Christie’s Middle East Forthcoming Sale

A dozen seminal artworks by Iraq’s modern masters from the extensive collection of Fadhil Chalabi have been included in Christie’s Middle East’s upcoming Dubai sale on 22 March. Chalabi’s passion for works by Iraqi artists, which provided a link to the homeland he loved, resulted in a massive collection of works solely from that country, and contributed to the support of both established and emerging artists.

Pieces in the forthcoming Christie’s Dubai sale include two untitled, abstract paintings by Shakir Hassan Al Said (Iraqi, 1925-2004), an artist with whom Chalabi had a close friendship, as well as two works created in the late 1980s by the prolific and versatile artist Dia Azzawi (Iraqi, b, 1939). These pieces, along with the majority of the 12 artworks from the Chalabi Collection offered by Christie’s, were acquired directly from the artists themselves, attesting to the longstanding relationships that Chalabi maintained with his compatriots despite living abroad.

“Mr. Chalabi’s intention in studying and working in the oil sector was to develop skills in other markets that could then be brought back to Iraq for the country’s development and benefit; his passion for Iraqi art was a way to maintain his connection with his homeland and its most creative communities,” said Hala Khayat, Director and Head of Sale, Christie’s Middle East.

All twelve of the Fadhil Chalabi Collection works will be on view at Christie’s Dubai in Jumeirah Emirates Towers from Monday, 19 March.