Posted on Mon, Apr 19, 2010
V.Serov "The Girl with Peaches"/ Oil on canvas
Posted by Lyudmila Bloch, Etiquette Expert NYC
Two Russian art auctions are taking place at Sotheby’s and Christie’s in New York from April 21, 2010 to April 23, 2010. While both auction houses are offering many unique art pieces, there are plenty of novel oil paintings of the Soviet era that will be introduced for the first time – works of art by Burliuk, Tchelitchev, Ivanoff, Roitburd, Kalmakoff, and Pochitonov.
At Christie’s, according to Artprice, look for Makovsky’s “In from a stroll” painting to cause a stir. (Konstantin Makovsky was an influential artist of the 19thcentury from Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture.) This painting is estimated to sell for about $600,000. Some of his well-known artworks include Tamara and Demon, The Russian Bride’s Attire, and The Kissing Custom.
Auctions can be fun if you’re familiar with proper auction etiquette. These etiquette tips will ensure that you go home with the right item.
· Attend the preview and inspect all items of interest thoroughly. Often pieces are sold “as is, where is. That means there is no refund policy.
· A numbered card called “paddle” identifies all participants. You must register prior to the start of the auction by providing your picture ID and basic banking information. Once you complete the process and get your “paddle” – you’re set to go! Simply raise your hand when submitting a bid, and raise your paddle only if you are “the winning bid.”
· Know the terms: each auction house will publish the terms of sale in their catalog. Find out during the preview is there “buyer’s premium” added to the final bid. If you’re not sure – ask!
· Proper auction etiquette requires a payment for your item as soon as possible. Don’t delay, inspect your item and finalize your transaction.