Collector Spotlight

Anahita Sadighi, Berlin

July 22, 2019 By: Adenike Cosgrove

Tell us a little about yourself.

In 2015, I opened a gallery for antique Asian art, Anahita Arts of Asia. Last year, I opened a second gallery, Anahita Contemporary, dedicated to contemporary art. Both galleries are a unique combination of ancient and contemporary art in Germany. The focus is on creating an intercultural dialogue between artists of different generations.

How did you discover African art?

I discovered Africa through the extensive collection of my father. I basically grew up with African art. I remember, as a child, I was fascinated with his African artefacts.

Growing up with African art, I just naturally developed an appreciation and love for Africa. I guess when you are exposed to a specific art theme and you experience how much respect, love and passion goes towards it, you just develop a curiosity.

I started personally collecting five years ago with the first purchase a female buffalo mask from Nigeria. I now mainly collect masks and textiles.

And at some point, you want to challenge your parents so you start collecting yourself [laughing].

Why Africa?

Africa, as the archaic art, forms the foundation of modernity. African art is both generally fascinating and equally secretive. Many questions arise. It occupies you. One would like to get behind these secrets.

What type of art appeals the most?

Generally, I find Dogon art very interesting, as well as art made by artists from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

What is your favourite piece in your collection?

A Bedu mask from the Bondoukou Region, Ivory Coast.

What steps do you take before a purchase?

A combination of research and dealer advice. Knowledge of the history or traditional use is part of collecting. Without knowledge, collecting would be very superficial.

Where do you go for research?

There is very good literature on Africa. I also study auction catalogues of Christie's and Sotheby's. They are well researched and presented. I mostly buy from dealers and I definitely curate a selection of objects - quality over quantity.

How do you live with your collection?

The objects are definitely not behind closed doors or cabinets. I enjoy living with art and Africa plays an important role in my house. I also like to change the interior design every now and then - including the art.

What are some of the reactions you receive on your collection?

The reactions are quite positive. Young people are especially drawn to African art and ask questions. They want to find out more about it. Sometimes friends wish they had found these objects themselves. Others compare African artefacts to other works of art.

What advice would you have for collectors starting out in African art?

To do enough research before you buy something and to buy from great dealers.