Indian Works of Art

 Why sell with Olympia Auctions?

Our joint Heads of Department, Arthur Millner and Nicholas Shaw are well-known and highly regarded experts in this field. Arthur sits on the vetting committees of several major art and antique fairs, lectures and writes to great acclaim and has an extensive knowledge of this varied market. His scholarly approach and the pleasure he takes in sharing his passion for Indian art gives our vendors a distinct advantage.

Nicholas is a leading specialist in Indian manuscripts, miniatures and paintings and has worked in the London fine art market for over thirty years. Arthur and Nicholas have both previously held the position of Head of the Islamic and Indian Art Department at Sotheby’s.

Who is buying Indian art at auction?

The market for Indian works of art is varied, complex and strong with an increasing number of collectors buying online from India. The traditional American, European and UK markets are still very much active but as much as 30-40% of each auction now sells to Indian buyers.

Modern and Contemporary Indian Painting

This market has been growing vigorously over the last few years. At Olympia Auctions we are delighted to include well-known names such as Jamini Roy, Francis Newton Souza and Akbar Padamsee and are proud to be supporting the growth of a strong secondary market for Modern and Contemporary Indian art.

“I’m delighted to be asked to look at anything Indian and if it’s not something you can bring in, I’m always happy to make a visit. I was once asked to go to Surrey where a family had found a stone carving embedded in their garden hedge when they had bought the house. It turned out to be a 12th century Jain marble column from Gujarat and is now in the British Museum.” Arthur Millner

"Indian art, in particular that of the Mughal courts, is a diverse tradition, often syncretic in its ability to absorb new influences and produce something uniquely of that country. It has been the subject of fascination, indeed reverence, since the 17th century for visitors and remains today a rewarding experience for those who engage in the study of these artistic traditions. It is sophisticated, rich, complex and indulgent to the senses - a continuous joy for those of us able to spend time with it."  Nicholas Shaw