The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals (Part I)

ENGLAND/IRAN, Hands and Grille I, 2006, a cast gilt-bronze openwork plaque by P. Tanavoli [Sarber Jewellers, Vancouver] for the British Art Medal Society, hands clinging to a grille, rev. tips of fingers on grille bars, 91 x 63mm, 146.10g (The Medal 50, p.95, and illustrated on the covers; Leavitt Bourne, The Medal 50, p.66, 2; cf. Baxter Coll., Ewbank’s, 23 June 2022, 3158A; cf. Lodge & Thomas 1 Sept. 2023, 17). Brilliant, as made, very rare; an extremely significant modern sculptural piece £200-£400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Silich Collection of Historical and Art Medals.

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The concept behind the obverse is inspired by Shi’ite Muslims who visit shrines, put their hands on the grilles, say their vows, and pray and talk to their imam. The reverse indicates the view across the tomb, seeing on the opposite side of the grille all the fingers of those praying. For further detail on this and other works by the artist, see Marcy Leavitt Bourne, The Medal 50, pp.64-74.