Cataloguer, 20Th Century Design

About 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 as part of the 20th Century Design Department as a Cataloguer, this individual will work closely with the Head of Sale and other Specialists in New York in cataloguing and coordinating the sales.

Responsibilities

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
• Assisting in facilitating conservation projects
• Preparation of footnotes/essays and talking points for each work
• Preparing condition reports
• Assisting with research and object vetting, both internally and with external experts

Assisting In The Catalogue Production Process For Designated Projects

• Maintaining active communication with Specialists and Sale Manager to ensure seamless catalogue photography and catalogue layout processes, including alerting relevant colleagues to logistical, installation, condition or authenticity issues pertaining to specific works
• Assisting with catalogue layouts as needed
• Liaising with the Catalogue Production department and other support departments, adhering to deadlines

Aside from the primary cataloguing responsibilities, this role also includes the following tasks:

• Liaise and coordinate with Proposals and Marketing departments as needed
• Participating in the New York arts community –social and art world events e.g. gallery and museum openings, increase network of contacts and relationships within this market.
• Assisting the department in day-to-day projects, sale preparation and client management
• 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
• Learning to evaluate works for auction, valuations and appraisal purposes
• Assisting the department with valuations, proposals, and appraisal projects, including data entry
• Assist the department with any tasks needed for the exhibition preview set up
• 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

Ideal Experience & Competencies

• Excellent writing, proof-reading and organizational skills
• Auction house experience preferred
• Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet frequent deadlines
• Masters degree preferred
• A team player with excellent communication skills
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Self-starter
• Professional and discreet client service skills
• Thorough and focused, with a passion and commitment to learning about and working in the field
• Good, general knowledge of 20th Century Decorative Arts and Design
• 2 years of experience in the art world and/or a related academic program, ideally Master’s program is preferred

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $55,000-$65,000. 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.

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.