What Is the Famous Auction House in London?

By Michael Ferguson

Have you ever wondered what the famous auction house in London is? Look no further than Sotheby’s.

Founded in 1744, Sotheby’s is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious auction houses. With headquarters in New York, London, and Hong Kong, Sotheby’s conducts auctions in over 60 categories including fine art, jewelry, and collectibles.

The History of Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s was founded by Samuel Baker, a bookseller turned auctioneer. The first sale was held on March 11, 1744, at the Strand in London and featured several hundred rare books.

In the following years, Sotheby’s expanded to include auctions of paintings, sculptures, and other fine art objects. Today, Sotheby’s is known not only for its fine art auctions but also for its sales of jewelry, watches, wine, and collectibles.

Notable Sales at Sotheby’s

Over the years, many notable sales have taken place at Sotheby’s. In 2019, a painting by Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani sold for $157 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. Other famous sales include:

  • The sale of Vincent van Gogh’s “Irises” for $53.9 million in 1987
  • The sale of Pablo Picasso’s “Les Femmes d’Alger (Version ‘O’)” for $179 million in 2015
  • The sale of a diamond known as “The Pink Star” for $71 million in 2017

Visiting Sotheby’s

If you’re interested in visiting Sotheby’s to view upcoming auctions or exhibitions, be sure to check their website for schedules and information. Sotheby’s locations in London, New York, and Hong Kong offer a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can also attend auctions in person or bid online.

Conclusion

Sotheby’s has a long history of providing art collectors and enthusiasts with access to some of the world’s most important objects. From rare books to fine art, Sotheby’s offers a wide range of items for sale through its auctions. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, Sotheby’s is definitely worth checking out.