Course description
What does it take to buy and sell a work of art successfully at auction?
Buying and Selling Art at Auction offers an insider’s perspective on the thrilling, fast-paced world of art auctions, taking you behind the scenes to learn from top professionals at one of the world’s premier auction houses.
The course will examine questions such as: Who are the key players in an auction house, and what do they do? What are the different factors that determine the price of art, and how are values assigned? How has the internet changed the role of auctions in today’s art market? By the end of the course, students will master concepts such as commissions, reserves, guarantees, and irrevocable bids. Perfect for aspiring collectors, dealers, or the curious, this course will enable participants to approach art auctions with the knowledge and confidence necessary to succeed.
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Suitability - Who should attend?
For successfully completing this course, you receive a verified Certificate of Completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art as well as 5.2 IACET Continuing Education Units. *
Our digital certificates allow you to share new skills with various social media platforms, including LinkedIn. Successful completion is defined by each instructor in the course syllabus and consists, at the least, of regular, thoughtful participation in online activities and timely submission of assigned papers or projects.
*As an IACET Accredited Provider, Sotheby’s Institute of Art offers IACET CEUs for its learning events that comply with the ANSI/IACET Continuing Education and Training Standard.
Training Course Content
Week 1: Learn about the history of art auctions, key terminology and bidding methods, global markets, and the role of the auctioneer.
Week 2: Explore tips for pricing and selling while examining the role of the specialist.
Week 3: Understand the process of buying at auction, including a look at the importance of art lawyers and contracts.
Week 4: Examine the role internet and technology plays in the future of auction models and digital markets.
Course delivery details
Award-winning online course
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Sotheby's Institute of Art
Sotheby’s auction house was founded in 1744 when Samuel Baker, an entrepreneur, occasional publisher, and successful businessman held his first auction. Today at Sotheby’s Institute, we emphasize a keen understanding of an object’s value and history, a spirit of inquiry...