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A Piece of the Auction - Behind the Scenes at an International Auction House

Morning Lecture

20 November 2024

A Piece of the Auction - Behind the Scenes at an International Auction House

Simon Cottle in action at Bonhams Auctioneers

The international art market is today dominated by four British auctioneers, their world record prices sensationally reported by the world’s media. But what is it like behind the canvas? How do auction houses function? What goes on behind the scenes and what is required for a successful sale to take place?


With an overview of the rise of two of the main London salerooms, Sotheby’s and Bonhams - both founded in the 18th century - this lecture, given by an auctioneer with thirty-five years experience in both houses, will reveal all.

Our Speaker Simon Cottle is a leading international specialist, author, auctioneer and lecturer in British and European Glass, now retired. He was formerly Managing Director (Bonhams Europe) and Director of European Ceramics and Glass at Bonhams Auctioneers, London (2007-2023); also Head of European Ceramics and Glass at Sotheby's, where he was a Director and auctioneer (1990 to 2007). He is responsible for numerous landmark auctions of European Glass both at Sotheby's and Bonhams.


After studying History at University College Cardiff and the University of Washington and holding a postgraduate diploma in Museum and Art Gallery Studies from Manchester University, he began his career as a senior curator of ceramics, glass and silver at museums in London, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Glasgow (1979-1990). He is Hon. President of the Glass Society, Fellow of the Guild of Glass Engravers and a Fellow of the Corning Museum of Glass, New York.

Simon Cottle

Simon Cottle

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