Cataloguer

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

• Bachelor's 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 days
  paid 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