Temporary Associate Cataloguer, Contemporary and Modern Art, Milan

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.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Cataloguing 
  • 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 for the Milan sales and export properties
  • Preparation of footnotes/essays and talking points for each work
  • Assisting with research and object vetting, both internally and with external experts
  • Assisting in facilitating conservation projects
  • Preparing condition reports
  • Assisting with catalogue layouts as needed
  • Liaising with the Catalogue Production department and other support departments, adhering to deadlines
  • 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
  • Support Cataloguing, Photo and Research processes at the highest quality standards
  • Coordinating with Operations, Cat Prod & conservators for pre-sale needs
  • Assist with book checks, essays and editorial content
  • Handcarry and pick up support
  • Coordinating with conservators and Operations for ad hoc framing and repairs
• Other Tasks
  • Assisting the department with valuations, including data entry
  • Assisting the department in day-to-day projects, sale preparation and client management
  • Liaise and coordinate with Proposals and Marketing departments as needed
  • Providing a comprehensive level of service to Sotheby’s clients.  This includes responding to day-to-day client queries and maintaining client contact
  • 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
• Client Support
  • Providing the Chairman and her clients with day-to-day information on past and forthcoming sales, identify property of interest coming up for sale at auction or privately, obtain bidding advice and execution condition reports and other relevant information
  • Deliver client requests concerning general collection management including consignments, pre- and post-sale support and administration, bid registration and execution, loan requests, transactional history, accounts and valuations.
  • Monitor consignment process pre- and post-sale in order to ensure a smooth selling experience and high sell through rates for consignments.
  • Coordinate tracking and input of all significant contribution for auction consignments, purchases, IB and underbids, private treaty sales.
  • Ensure that the Chairman’s managed clients receive a consistently high level of service, by maintaining communication with all the departments.

IDEAL COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE

• 1+ year of experience in the art world is preferred (also auction house experience preferred)
• Good, general knowledge of Contemporary and Modern Art
• A team player with excellent communication skills
• Thorough and focused, with a passion and commitment to learning about and working in the field
• Professional and discreet client service skills
• Excellent writing, proof-reading and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet frequent deadlines
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task

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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.