Sotheby’s Furniture Auction: A Guide to Bidding and Winning

Table of contents

Are you a fan of antique furniture? Do you enjoy the thrill of auctions? If so, you might be interested in exploring Sotheby’s furniture auctions. Sotheby’s is a British-founded auction house that has been in operation for over 275 years. Today, it is one of the world’s largest brokers of fine and decorative art, jewelry, real estate, and collectibles.

The Sotheby's furniture auction buzzes with excitement as bidders eagerly eye the exquisite pieces on display. Bright lights illuminate the elegant display, showcasing the fine craftsmanship and timeless beauty of each item up for bid

Sotheby’s furniture auctions offer a unique opportunity to acquire rare and valuable pieces from various periods and styles. The auction house has a team of specialists who carefully curate each sale to ensure a diverse and high-quality selection of furniture. Whether you are looking for a Georgian mahogany chest of drawers, a Louis XVI giltwood mirror, or a mid-century modern sofa, you are likely to find something that suits your taste and budget at Sotheby’s.

Key Takeaways

Sotheby’s is a British-founded auction house that offers a wide range of fine and decorative art, jewelry, real estate, and collectibles.
Sotheby’s furniture auctions feature a diverse and high-quality selection of rare and valuable pieces from various periods and styles.
Sotheby’s team of specialists carefully curate each sale to ensure a unique and exciting auction experience.

Exploring Sotheby’s Furniture Auctions

A crowded room filled with elegant furniture, people examining and bidding on items, auctioneer calling out prices, excitement and anticipation in the air

If you are a connoisseur of luxury furniture, Sotheby’s furniture auctions are the perfect place for you to find unique and exquisite pieces of furniture. With a history spanning centuries, Sotheby’s has become synonymous with the finest antiques and decorative arts available.

History and Significance

Sotheby’s has been auctioning furniture since the 17th century, making it one of the oldest auction houses in the world. The company has a long-standing reputation for quality and expertise, attracting collectors and decorators from around the globe. Sotheby’s auctions offer a unique opportunity to acquire pieces of furniture that have been treasured for centuries.

Types of Furniture Available

Sotheby’s offers a wide range of furniture styles, from 17th-century antiques to contemporary pieces. The selection includes French furniture, 18th-century pieces, Art Deco designs, and more. Whether you are looking for a walnut bookcase or a satinwood dressing table, Sotheby’s has something to suit every taste.

Understanding Auction Estimates and Sales Totals

When browsing Sotheby’s furniture auctions, it is important to understand the estimated value of each piece and the potential sale total. The estimate is the price range that Sotheby’s expects the item to sell for, while the sale total is the final price that the item sells for at auction. Keep in mind that the sale total may exceed the estimate if there is high demand for a particular piece.

So, whether you’re a collector, decorator, or simply appreciate the beauty of fine furniture, Sotheby’s furniture auctions are the perfect place to find unique and exquisite pieces. With a wide range of styles and time periods available, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

The Auction Experience

A crowded room filled with elegant antique furniture, bidders eagerly waving paddles, and an auctioneer commanding attention

Sotheby’s furniture auctions offer a unique and exciting experience for both experienced collectors and first-time buyers. Here are some things you should know before attending an auction:

Preparing for the Auction

Before attending an auction, it’s important to do your research and familiarize yourself with the selection of furniture available. Sotheby’s website provides online catalogues of upcoming auctions, as well as detailed information on the furniture periods and styles on offer.

On the day of the auction, arrive early to preview the furniture and speak with Sotheby’s specialists. They can provide valuable insights into the pieces and answer any questions you may have.

Notable Auctions and Their Locations

Sotheby’s hosts furniture auctions twice a year, in the Spring and Autumn. The September auction in London is particularly noteworthy, featuring a selection of fine English furniture from the 17th to 19th centuries.

In addition to its London location, Sotheby’s has auction houses in New York, Paris, and other worldwide locations. The auction experience is similar across all locations, with experienced specialists on hand to guide you through the bidding process.

Contemporary design is also a popular category at Sotheby’s, with auctions featuring pieces from renowned designers such as Philippe Starck and Marc Newson.

Whether you’re an experienced collector or a first-time buyer, Sotheby’s furniture auctions offer a unique opportunity to acquire rare and beautiful pieces from some of the world’s most renowned furniture periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

A crowded room with people inspecting and bidding on various pieces of furniture at a Sotheby's auction. Bright lights illuminate the space, adding to the excitement and energy of the event

How can I find out about upcoming furniture auctions at Sotheby’s?

You can stay up-to-date with Sotheby’s upcoming furniture auctions by visiting their website or signing up for their email newsletter. Sotheby’s also releases a printed auction catalog, which you can request to be mailed to you.

What are the commission rates for selling with Sotheby’s?

Sotheby’s commission rates vary depending on the value of the item being sold. You can find out more information about commission rates on their website or by contacting a representative.

How can I get a valuation for my furniture before auctioning at Sotheby’s?

You can request a free valuation for your furniture by submitting an online form on Sotheby’s website or by contacting a representative. Sotheby’s experts will review your item and provide an estimate of its value.

What are the steps to consign furniture for auction at Sotheby’s?

To consign your furniture for auction at Sotheby’s, you will need to contact a representative and provide information about your item. Sotheby’s will then review your item and provide an estimate of its value. If you agree to consign the item, you will sign a contract and arrange for the item to be transported to Sotheby’s.

How does Sotheby’s compare with other high-end auction houses in terms of service?

Sotheby’s is known for its exceptional service and expertise in the auction industry. They have a global network of specialists and offer a range of services, including appraisals, valuations, and transportation of items. However, it’s always a good idea to research and compare different auction houses to find the one that best suits your needs.

Can I participate in a Sotheby’s furniture auction if I’m not physically present?

Yes, you can participate in a Sotheby’s furniture auction even if you’re not physically present. Sotheby’s offers online bidding and telephone bidding services, which allow you to bid on items remotely. You will need to register for these services in advance.