Associate Specialist, Furniture and Decorative Arts

Sotheby's•New York, NY

20h•$60,000 - $80,000

About The Position

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 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.

Requirements

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.
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

Nice To Haves

Ideally, 3-5 years in relevant industry

Responsibilities

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