Sotheby's
Cataloguer, Old Masters Paintings
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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
The individual in this Cataloguer role will contribute to the research, cataloguing, valuation, and sale of European paintings dating from the late 13th through the 19th centuries. As a key member of the department, the successful candidate will combine scholarly expertise with commercial awareness, playing an important role in the identification, assessment, and presentation of works for sale. Working closely with senior specialists, the Cataloguer will be responsible for researching and cataloguing property to the highest scholarly standards, supporting valuations, and contributing to business development initiatives. The role will involve direct interaction with clients, collectors, and external experts, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to represent the department confidently and professionally. The Cataloguer will play an integral role throughout the sale cycle, from property evaluation and catalogue production through to pre-sale client engagement and auction execution. As such, the successful candidate will contribute to the delivery of world-class auctions while maintaining the highest standards of connoisseurship, accuracy, and client service. This position requires a highly organized and collaborative individual who can manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and thrive in a fast-paced and team environment. The role is based in London and requires regular on-site presence.
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Responsibilities
Cataloguing and Research
- Conduct scholarly research and prepare catalogue entries for Old Master Paintings sales, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to departmental standards.
- Research provenance, literature, exhibition history, and attribution using a wide range of archival, institutional, and published sources for a large volume of paintings.
- Maintain an organized and easily accessible research file for each and every painting and project.
- Maintain active correspondence with external scholars, conservators, and others to support cataloguing and attribution research.
- Manage and follow up on outstanding research enquiries in a timely manner.
- Prepare detailed and accurate condition reports for works offered for sale.
- Research paintings and prepare relevant summary notes for each work ahead of weekly pricing meetings.
Sale Coordination and Execution
- Support the planning and execution of auctions and private sales within the department, with a particular focus on the Day and Mid-season sales.
- Manage catalogue production processes, including proofreading, image review, colour checking, and coordination with internal stakeholders.
- Assist with lot order recommendations, sale strategy discussions, and object presentation.
- Contribute to the development of marketing materials, editorial content, and digital initiatives
- Assist with exhibition planning, installation, and layout during previews and sale events.
- Support bidder outreach initiatives ahead of each sale.
Client Service and Business Development
- Deliver exceptional client service in response to estimate requests, valuation enquiries, catalogue queries, and image requests.
- Build and maintain relationships with collectors, dealers, advisors, museums, and others in the Old Master market.
- Respond professionally and efficiently to client enquiries received in person, by telephone, email, and through online platforms.
- Support senior specialists in sourcing property, preparing valuation proposals, and developing business opportunities for auction, private sale, fair market, and insurance purposes.
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Required
SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Art History or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated academic and practical experience in Old Master Paintings.
- Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to delivering outstanding client service.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity, discretion, and sound judgement.
- A self-motivated, proactive, and solution-oriented person.
Preferred
- MA, MPhil, or PhD specialising in Old Master Paintings, European Art, or a related discipline.
- Previous experience within an auction house, gallery, museum, dealership, or related art-market environment.
- Experience preparing scholarly catalogue entries and condition reports.
- Knowledge of one or more European languages relevant to the field.
- Familiarity with art market databases
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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.
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