HOW TO BUY AT AUCTION 

Public auctions represent a unique opportunity to acquire works of art, jewellery, furniture or exceptional pieces, while benefiting from the expertise and transparency guaranteed by a recognised auction house.  

Here is a practical guide to help you take your first steps as a buyer. 

 

1. CONSULTING THE SALE CATALOGUES 

Each sale organised by Libert & associés is announced in advance and is the subject of a detailed catalogue, available online and sometimes in hard copy. This catalogue presents the lots offered, accompanied by photographs, precise descriptions and price estimates. 

Tip: Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social networks so you don't miss any sales or events. 

 

2. ATTEND THE PREVIEW EXHIBITION 

Before each sale, an exhibition is organised, free of charge and open to all. This is an ideal opportunity to examine the lots up close, appreciate their condition and quality, and ask any questions you may have directly to the experts present. 

Tip: If you would like further information about a lot (condition report, certificate, provenance, additional photos), please contact us: info@libert-associes.com - +33(0)1 48 24 51 20 

 

3. REGISTERING FOR THE SALE & TAKING PART IN THE AUCTION 

Bring a valid ID and, if necessary, a bank guarantee to register with our team in the auction room or by email. 

There are several ways to bid at the auction:

- In the auction room: Bid on the spot by raising your hand when the auctioneer announces the lot you are interested in. 
- By telephone: If you wish to bid remotely, you will be contacted by a member of our team to bid live. 
- Online: Via our secure Drouot online or Interenchères Live platforms, you can follow the sale in real time and bid remotely. 
- By purchase order: You can leave a purchase order in advance, indicating the maximum amount you are prepared to bid for a lot. 

Tip: Before the sale, set yourself a bidding limit that corresponds to your maximum budget for each lot you are interested in, so that you can bid with complete peace of mind. 

 

4. AFTER THE AUCTION 

If you are the winning bidder, you will receive an auction statement indicating the final amount, including the buyer's costs. 

Payment can be made: 

- By bank transfer. 
- By credit card (depending on the amount). 

Tip: Plan to collect your lot as soon as payment has been made. Our teams can help you organise transport if necessary. 

 

5. PURCHASE CHARGES 

In addition to the hammer price, buyer's costs apply. The rate is set out in the catalogue and repeated before the start of each sale. 

 

6. COLLECTING YOUR PURCHASES 

Once payment has been made, your purchases can be collected directly from the Auction House or from storage (depending on the sale) or delivered to the address of your choice, in accordance with the agreed terms and conditions. 

Buying at auction is much more than a simple purchase: it's an encounter with history, it's feeling the emotion of the moment when the hammer falls, and above all, it's the pleasure of owning a unique object to which you are giving a second life. 

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need advice, or to arrange your next visit!