Sotheby's, Christie's and the Like

When most people hear the name of a high end auction house like Sotheby's or Christies they immediately think of a stuffy intimidating environment where only the uber-rich participate in day sales of Impressionist art.  Well, yes, this sort of thing does happen, as evidenced by the recent sale of Edvard Munch's "Scream" for $119M.

But when these highly publicized auctions are not happening, Sotheby's and Christies (and the like...) are still open for business and are offering a wide range of collectibles at every possible price point.  Taking a look at the Christie's website for June 2012, there are 38 sales occurring.  These sales range from impressionist art (there it is again), to Japanese, Russian and Chinese art, wine, watches, Rock and Roll memorabilia, Italian photography...and the list goes on.

Now, I know what you are thinking...all that stuff I just listed still sounds like it is going to come with a hefty price tag.  Well...maybe.  But there are two reasons why I like to frequent these sites.  First of all, each sale is like a temporary online museum exhibit.  So, even if you don't have the cash, you have an opportunity to look at some really cool stuff that will, in the very near future, be holed up in someone's private collection for who knows how long.

Secondly...you never know when something reasonable might come along that you would like to have and you actually could afford.  While Edvard's painting is selling for over-the-moon dollars, beautiful 18th and 19th century English furniture (for example) can be had for prices equivalent to (or less) than what you would pay at Ethan Allen for something new.  Check out this beautiful English 19th century inlaid mahogany sideboard that sold for $875 at Christie's recently.  That price included commission...which for Christies is 25% for something like this.  Yes...you would have to have it shipped...but that is still an awesome deal (if you happen to need a sideboard).

Until next time....