London auction houses cancel Russian art sales
Auction houses in London cancel sales of Russian art as part of the Western sanctions on Russia.
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A Faberge jeweled gold and enamel cigarette case dating from 1899-1903, at Sotheby's auction house in London
Auction houses in London have canceled their sales of Russian art in London in June as part of the Western sanctions on Russia.
Auction houses Christie's, Sotheby's, and Bonhams hold sales of Russian art in June and November as part of "Russian Art Week".
"We are absolutely rigorous about following the present sanctions, and are monitoring closely for any updates to the lists," Sotheby's said in a statement. Christie's also canceled its sales, citing logistical and legal requirements related to sanctions, while Bonhams did not provide a reason.
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Western countries have been imposing sanctions on anything and everything Russian, from oil and gas sales to even Russian-bred cats and classes on Russian writers, sparking comments of rampant Russophobia in the West.
Putin said on Wednesday that the West was trying to punish Russia by persecuting Russians and by cracking down on Russian music, culture, and literature.
"By attempting to cancel Russia, the West has lifted the mask of decency and is acting like louts, showing its true colours," Putin said.
