About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewelry, and entertainment memorabilia.
Our employees are passionate about their work, and we pride ourselves on a bespoke approach that aims to make every client feel important.
Based in Massachusetts, Bonhams Skinner holds approximately 55 sales a year in 14 collecting categories including Americana, Fine and Decorative Arts, Jewelry, and Wine.
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.
About the Role The Cataloguer in American Art is a vital member of the American Art department, responsible for researching and cataloguing works of art in a broad variety of media and time periods and contributing to strong auction results in American Art. Working within a national team and reporting to the Senior Specialist, Head of Sale of American Art at Bonhams Skinner, this role requires deep connoisseurship and will build strong commercial acumen. In addition, the Cataloguer will assist other departments with similar duties, especially in the field of pre-20th century European art.
The Cataloguer plays a critical role in assisting Specialists in identifying opportunities for growth, winning consignments, curating auctions, and selling the sales.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Catalogue and research incoming property for sale and oversee photography of each item
Efficient handling of client enquiries over the telephone, email, and on site
Liaison with Head of Department and senior staff to ensure prompt advice and service to our customers, and to discuss sensitive areas
Complete initial research to develop specialist knowledge and to assist senior staff with valuation research
Assisting with the management of the cataloguing including but not limited to overseeing authentication, property control, tracking of consignments and artwork movements, contributing catalogue notes, proof-reading, and marketing prior to the sales
Helping with the auction set-up and handling of artworks, where necessary, including deliveries and collections, packing and unpacking, framing and unframing, and lotting prior to the sales
Collecting and managing departmental files and maintaining and supporting the ongoing development of a database of clients - both buyers and sellers - for the department
Contribute to pre- and post-sale administration
Executing and sending condition reports under supervision of senior staff
Supporting departmental events and telephone bidding
To continue to play a leading role in business intelligence and client research; updating databases and anticipating growth areas
Assisting the Head of Sale with strategies to grow the business intelligence / business development of the department including maintaining and creating interest and marketing lists
Keep exploring areas where your career can grow in terms of client development, expertise, and ultimately business getting
In addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your manager.
Key Skills and Attributes
Excellent word processing skills, knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and Outlook
Excellent time management, communication, and people skills
Organizational and administrative skills with an administrative background in a similar setting
Excellent problem resolution skills and customer service skills
Ability to move 30-40 lbs
Additional Desired Qualities
Bachelors Degree in Art History
1+ years experience in an Auction House environment, strongly preferred
Travel Expectations
Periodic: primarily day trips within New England
What We Offer In addition to an active and progressive work environment, Bonhams offers a competitive benefits package to encourage work/life balance, including:
Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance - HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA
20 dayspaid time off (PTO)
12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day
16 weeks fully paid parental leave(after one year)and flexible work arrangements
401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (after one year)
Life insurance with AD&D
Short- and long-term disability
Tuition reimbursement
Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
Employee assistance program (EAP)
Professional development: free online training and expansive content library
Employee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship program
Sponsored socials: annual staff art exhibition, annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, weekly breakfast
Bonhams participates in E-Verify. Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted.
$20.00-27.00 hourly DOE