Cataloguer, Old Masters

THE ROLE

This person will work on cataloguing and coordinating sales in the Old Master Paintings department.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with cataloguing and researching items for the Old Master sales, encompassing European paintings from the late 13th to 19th centuries:
  • Independently researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard while also meeting strict scheduled deadlines
  • Corresponding with and establishing relationships with external experts, while also following up on all outstanding research inquiries
  • Writing condition reports for the lots on offer
• Working with senior business getters to lead the mid-season and online sale program, including cataloguing, digital catalogue production, lot order finalization, proofreading, color-checking, producing marketing material and editorial content, assisting with exhibition layout and set-up, staffing exhibitions, and helping to target potential bidders
• General department support, including answering phones, and helping with day-to-day client enquiries at the front desk, through the online inquiry portal, by email and on the telephone
• Maintaining excellence in client service when responding to estimate enquiries, general correspondence and photo requests
• Developing and managing client relationships
• Assisting the senior experts with the research of paintings for auction, fair market and insurance valuations, proposals, and others

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree in Art History, preferably, but not exclusively, with a Northern Baroque area of specialization (BA and some graduate coursework required; MA, MPhil, or PhD preferred)
• Strong experience in Old Masters, ideally in an auction environment
• Excellent research, organization, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Proven capacity to prioritize multiple highly important processes and responsibilities in a high-pressured environment while meeting constant deadlines
• Ability to work effectively both individually and as a team, while also pitching in to provide senior members of staff and colleagues with support
• Commitment to an exemplary level of client service
• Demonstrates a strong record in client relationship management and a sensitive approach to problem solving
• Possesses high levels of integrity and discretion in line with Sotheby’s corporate governance and legal framework
• Self-motivated and proactive
• Knowledge of at least one other European language
• Requires on-site presence, as well as flexibility in work hours as needed

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.