Associate Cataloger, Music and Instruments

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

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 role is responsible for cataloging and researching Music and Instruments in New York.  This role plays a central part in supporting the processing of Music and Instruments in New York and preparing objects for sale.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Research and Cataloguing

• Assist with cataloging, researching and preparing notes for Music and Instruments


• Provenance research


• Perform thorough checks and vetting of information provided by client


• Assist in physical inspection and condition reporting for works


• Manage authentication process


• Assist business getters with cataloging, researching and notes for proposal purposes

Condition Reports and Conservation

• Manage the condition report needs and processes as they evolve


• Manage communications and schedule meetings with condition report vendors (conservators)

Sourcing

• Assist with the evaluation of works for auction and appraisal purposes, including responses to phone, written, and online platform estimate requests


• Collaborate with departments to develop and implement a methodology for identifying potential works for proactive sourcing


• Assist specialist in securing consignments of property for sale at auction, including client correspondence, preparation of auction estimate listings, and writing, proofreading, and coordination of proposals


• Liaise with the department coordinator to maintain running lists of property already consigned, potential future consignments, as well as client and consignment files and records

Sale & Exhibition

• Coordinate and manage sale related responsibilities, including condition reports, assisting with exhibition design and set-up, staffing exhibitions and assisting prospective clients, conducting underbid recording and bidding


• Partner with other business areas to respond to client inquiries, resolve client issues and execute client transactions to ensure the highest level of client satisfaction

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s degree with Major/Concentrator in Art History


• 1-2 years of professional experience required


• Knowledge of Impressionist art history, artists and values


• Impeccable organizational & writing skills


• Strong time-management skills


• Dependable, proactive, mature


• Ability to multi task and perform in a pressured environment and handle high level of responsibility


• Ability to work well with others as well as independently in order to achieve deadlines


• Occasional long hours required, included late evenings and weekends during sale deadlines, exhibitions and auctions


• Strong computer skills with knowledge of Excel, Word and PowerPoint


• Sotheby’s experience helpful


• French language skills a plus

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $50,000-$60,000. 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. 

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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.