Osman Hamdi Bey's 'At the Mosque Door' Sells for £3.68 Million at Bonhams London Auction

On March 25, a remarkable Orientalist artwork by Osman Hamdi Bey fetched £3,678,400 during Bonhams' auction for 19th Century Paintings and British Impressionist Art. Titled 'Cami Kapisinda (At the Mosque Door),' this piece was the highlight of the 72-lot event, which totaled £6,326,238 in sales. Created in 1891, the painting was previously obtained directly from the artist in 1895 and was auctioned for the first time. Its estimated value prior to the sale ranged from £2,000,000 to £3,000,000. Charles O'Brien, the Director of 19th Century Paintings at Bonhams, praised the artwork as a stunning representation of the artist's talent, emphasizing its exceptional provenance. Osman Hamdi Bey (1842–1910) is celebrated as a prominent figure in Orientalist art. The auction occurred at Bonhams New Bond Street in London.