Cataloguer

About the Bonhams Network

Founded in 1793, Bonhams is a global network of auction houses, with the largest number of international salerooms, offering the widest range of collecting categories and selling at all price points. Bonhams is recognised for its bespoke service, and a dedication to local market relationships, enhanced by a global platform. With 14 salerooms, Bonhams presents over 1,000 sales annually, across more than 60 specialist categories, including fine art, collectables, luxury, wine & spirits, and collector cars.  In 2022, Bonhams added four international auction houses to its network: Bukowskis, Stockholm; Bruun Rasmussen, Copenhagen; Cornette de Saint Cyr, Paris and Brussels; and Skinner, Massachusetts. The success of Bonhams’ global strategy is a result of recognising the shift in growing intercontinental buying and increased digital engagement.

About the Department

The Islamic and Indian Art team consists of: Head of Department, Senior Specialist, Cataloguer, and an Administrator. We hold two main sales a year in London, in May and November. We also hold two online-only sales a year. The Department is a leader in its field and has seen significant recent successes particularly in Sikh Art, and weapons and other material relating to the South Indian ruler Tipu Sultan, including a world record for any Islamic and Indian Art with the sale of the Bedchamber sword in 2023 for £14,000,0000. We handle a large quantity of material from all over the Islamic and Indian worlds, dating from the 9th Century AD to the early 20th. We pride ourselves on our expertise and approachability, working closely as a team.

About the Role

In your role as Cataloguer, you will be required to carry out the following:

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

• Catalogue incoming property for sale and oversee photography of each item.


• Property control and management of stock – movement of artworks, organisation of storage area.


• Research, contributing catalogue notes, assisting with condition reporting prior to the sale.


• Liaise with specialists to ensure prompt advice and service to our customers and complete initial research and to develop specialist knowledge across the period.


• Keep records and files in order, for customers, sales, and external consultants.


• Handle efficiently client enquires over the telephone and at the front desk and on valuations alongside the specialists.


• Keep exploring areas where your career can grow in terms of client development, expertise, and ultimately business getting.


• Contribute to pre- and post-sale administration when required.

Key Skills and Experience 

• Excellent interpersonal skills, both written and oral


• Ability to work to tight deadlines


• Ability to multi-task and prioritise


• A strong and flexible team player


• Be computer literate (PowerPoint, Excel, Word etc.)


• High level of efficiency and communication

What We Offer

 Some of our benefits and perks include:

• 28 days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 33 with service.


• Healthcare and Life Assurance


• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave


• Cycle to Work Scheme


• Season Ticket Loan

If you wish to apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by the 23rd July 2025 at midnight.

We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.

Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.