Auction House Apr 2026

Founded in 1766, it manages departments ranging from Old Master Paintings to luxury watches. Sotheby's: A leader in art expertise and market insights. Phillips: Noted for contemporary art and photography. Bonhams: Specializes in antiques, fine art, and motor cars. Types of Items Sold

Several high-profile houses handle record-breaking sales of luxury goods and art: auction house

An is a specialized business or venue where goods and assets—ranging from fine art and collectibles to industrial commodities—are sold to the highest bidder through a public competitive process. While historic institutions like Christie's and Sotheby's dominate high-end art, modern auction houses operate across various sectors, including digital economies like World of Warcraft . How Auction Houses Operate Founded in 1766, it manages departments ranging from

The core function of an auction house is to act as an intermediary, facilitating the journey of an item from a seller to a new owner through market analysis and relationship building. Bonhams: Specializes in antiques, fine art, and motor cars

Experts evaluate "lots" (items for sale) to provide estimated values and set a Suggested Opening Bid (SOB) .

Many houses use the 10-minute rule or 3-minute rule , where a late bid resets the clock to prevent "sniping"—the practice of using software to bid at the last second.

Houses typically charge a seller's commission and a buyer's premium (a percentage added to the hammer price). Major Global Auction Houses