Associate Specialist, Furniture and Decorative Arts

Associate Specialist, Furniture and Decorative Arts

New York, United States

About Sotheby's

Established in 1744, Sotheby's promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories 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 through RM Sotheby's and Concierge. Sotheby's Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby's new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

The Role

This person will work on cataloguing and supporting the various owner and single owner furniture and decorative art sales in New York. They will work cross functionally across a broad range of objects, supporting English & European Furniture, European Ceramics, and Silver. Knowledge of furniture, along with an interest in Silver and Ceramics, is essential. The ideal candidate brings a genuine passion for antiques and craftsmanship, paired with an enthusiasm for engaging the next generation of collectors, designers, and art enthusiasts. An interest in merchandising and living with antiques is essential, as this role can help shape how objects are presented in catalogues, exhibitions, and digital storytelling to engage both seasoned collectors and new audiences.

Responsibilities

This role encompasses the following responsibilities:

• Sale-related Responsibilities include:
• Respond to client estimate requests via pricing platform, email, phone and visit
• Coordinate and oversee proposals and appraisals where appropriate
• Liaise with internal support staff including coordinators, registrars, and art handlers, in assisting with the planning and execution of all logistical aspects of a sale
• Support research and cataloguing and condition reporting of objects to the highest standard, as directed by manager
• Assist and coordinate research, both internally and with external experts
• Ensure that photography of objects, color proofing of images, and proof-reading of text is completed in a timely manner
• Serve as point of contact for sale marketing development and execution for the various owner sales, including catalogue production and online sale presentation
• Help to sell the sale by assisting clients at the exhibition; speak to clients about the property; assist with client outreach; develop, track and communicate client interest in lots; and execute bids at sale
• Collaborate with marketing, editorial, and specialists to develop content or programming that highlights the continued relevance of antiques and appeals to next generation collectors
• Working with the Furniture, Silver and European Ceramics specialists, develop expert knowledge through valuations for auction, insurance, tax and collection management purposes
• Attend appraisal visits with specialists to photograph and catalogue works for sale and insurance valuation purposes
• Participate in department meetings, including estimating sessions, sourcing discussions and selling meetings
• Assist with general department support, including answering email enquiries, answering phones and assisting walk-in at the main office and warehouse

Ideal Experience & Competencies

• Demonstrated passion for antiques and historical decorative arts, with a curiosity for how these objects resonate with contemporary lifestyles and future collectors
• Excellent inter-personal skills and ability to establish close working relationships with internal support staff including administrators, operations, catalogue production, etc.
• Ideally, 3-5 years in relevant industry
• Highly organized, detail-oriented
• Ability to prioritize multiple highly important processes and responsibilities and meet deadlines
• Excellent client service, including verbal and written skills
• Excellent team player
• Requires flexibility in work hours as needed

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $60,000-$80,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.