Page 56 - Christies Indian and Himalayan Art Sept 2015

Collectors and philanthropists Shelley and Donald Rubin founded
the Rubin Museum of Art which opened to the public in 2004. The
Rubins wished to offer New York and the world an unparalleled
cultural institution dedicated to the art and ideas of the Himalayas.
They were particularly motivated by a desire to increase the visibility
of underappreciated artistic traditions by donating their personal
collection to establish a new museum.
The basis for the Rubin Museum of Art collection was a generous
gift of more than 1,800 objects from the founders passionately
assembled over the course of three decades. Fulfilling that vision,
the Rubin Museum of Art is now a thriving arts and cultural hub in
New York City’s vibrant Chelsea neighborhood that inspires visitors
to make connections between contemporary life and the art and
ideas of the Himalayas and neighboring regions.
The Rubin collection spans a period of more than 1,500 years. It
encompasses 3,000 preeminent works of art and objects from the
Tibetan plateau, with examples from surrounding regions including
Nepal, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
The collection focuses on artworks of considerable quality and
depth. With its scroll paintings (thangkas) and sculptures, as well as
a wide variety of artworks such as masks, textiles, and illuminated
manuscripts, it provides audiences from around the world with the
opportunity to see exceptional works of art, and be exposed to the
rich history and achievements of Himalayan regions.
The Rubin Museum is now entering its second decade. Looking
to its future and long-term goals as an institution, the museum is
refining and strengthening its founding collection—a program that
includes both deaccessioning and acquiring new artworks.
Christie’s is honored to present works deaccessioned by the Rubin
Museum of Art. Funds obtained through this sale will enable the
Rubin Museum of Art to further expand its collection and continue
to inspire future generations of visitors.

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