ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE
This individual will provide cataloguing and research support for the Old Master Paintings Department.
RESPONSIBLITIES
- Cataloguing and researching items for the Old Master Paintings Day and Mid-season auctions as well as valuations, encompassing European paintings from the late 13th to early 19th centuries
- Researching and cataloguing of objects to the highest standard according to scheduled deadlines
- Corresponding and establishing relationships with external experts, while also following up and managing outstanding research enquiries
- Assisting with condition reports for the lots on offer
- Being involved in all aspects of our auctions throughout the year, including digital catalogue production, lot order finalisation, proofreading, colour-checking, producing marketing material and editorial content, assisting with exhibition layout and set-up, staffing exhibition, and targeting potential bidders
- Helping with day-to-day client enquiries at the counter, through the online enquiry portal, by email and on the telephone
- Maintaining excellence in client service when responding to estimate enquiries, general correspondence and photo requests
- Assisting with the maintenance of the OMP and 19th Century Paintings libraries and archive systems
- Assisting the Senior Experts with the research of paintings for valuations, proposals and other purposes
- Operating at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate Governance.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Education to degree level in History of Art (BA or MA), ideally with knowledge and experience of Old Master Paintings as well as 19th Century Paintings
- Excellent research skills
- The ability to summarise research and communicate well in writing
- The ability to work effectively individually and in a team and to ‘pitch in’ when required
- An eye for detail and a methodical approach
- Ability to work well under pressure and a flexible approach to a wide range of tasks
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to an exemplary level of client service
- Self-motivated with enthusiasm to learn
- A flexible and pro-active approach to work
- Knowledge of at least one other European language would be an advantage
- Strong organisational skills with proven ability of meeting deadlines
- Some understanding of Sotheby’s and its culture and services, and of the auction process in general
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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.
