AddressABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby's is the world's premier destination for art and luxury. Synonymous with innovation, Sotheby's promotes access, connoisseurship and preservation of fine art and rare objects through auctions, private sales and retail locations. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 50 categories, which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Interiors, among many others.
THE ROLE
Working in the Impressionist and Modern Art Department as a Cataloguer on the Day Sales Team, this individual will work closely with the Head of Sale and other Specialists in London in cataloguing and coordinating Impressionist and Modern Art sales.
RESPONSIBLITIES
Cataloguing works for consignment:
- Researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard, including physical inspection and documentation of works as well as provenance and academic research for each work
- Preparation of footnotes/essays and talking points for each work
- Assisting with research and object vetting, both internally and with external experts
- Working with interns, research assistants and department assistants to ensure valuations and research is undertaken thoroughly and to deadlines
- Assisting in facilitating conservation projects
- Preparing condition reports
Assisting in the sale process:
- Maintaining active communication with Specialists and Sale Manager to ensure a seamless process, including alerting relevant colleagues to logistical, installation, condition or authenticity issues pertaining to specific works
- Support cataloguing, photo and research processes for the online catalogue
- Coordinating with Pre-sale administrators and Operations, to ensure works meet any travel deadline
- Assist with book checks, essays and editorial content
- Handcarry and pick up support
- Coordinating with conservators and framers for any pre-sale needs
- Coordinate with operations on Exhibition design spreadsheet and exhibition design order form Assist with review processes, including cataloguing text and outstanding cataloguing to do list
Additional Responsibilities:
- Assisting the department with valuations, proposals and appraisal projects, including data entry
- Develop pricing skills and market knowledge
- Assisting the department in day-to-day projects, sale preparation and client management
- Liaise and coordinate with Proposals and Marketing departments as needed
- Providing a comprehensive level of service to Sotheby's clients. This includes responding to day-to-day client queries and maintaining client contact
- Responding to client estimate requests via phone and written response
- Assisting in selling the sale by helping clients at the exhibition; speaking to clients about the property; develop, track and communicate client interest in lots; and execute bids at the sale
- Participating in the London arts community –social and art world events e.g. gallery and museum openings, increase network of contacts and relationships within this market.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor's Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest
- 2 years of experience in the art world is preferred (also auction house experience preferred)
- Good, general knowledge of Impressionist and Modern Art
- Additional language skills preferred (ideally French, German, Italian, Mandarin)
- Self-starter
- A team player with excellent communication skills
- Thorough and focused, with a passion and commitment to learning about and working in the field
- Professional and discreet client service skills
- Excellent writing, proof-reading and organisational skills
- Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet frequent deadlines
- Additional languages
- Ability to prioritize and multi-task
To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the US, please click here.
To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the UK, Hong Kong, France and Switzerland, please click here.
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.
