How do you sell at auction?
Selling an item at auction is a process that is simple, transparent, and secure. Whether you’re a collector, an heir, or an art lover looking to sell a work of art, a piece of jewelry, an antique piece of furniture, or a collectible, our auctioneers will guide you through every step—from appraisal to the final sale—to ensure the best possible outcome.
Here is a practical guide to help you understand the process.
1. ENTERING AN ITEM INTO AN AUCTION
To include your items in an auction, contact us to schedule a free and confidential appraisal.
Our auctioneers will examine your items to determine their authenticity, condition, and current market value.
At the end of this step, you’ll receive a realistic and transparent estimate. If you wish, you can set a reserve price—that is, the minimum amount for which you’re willing to sell your item.
Auctions Tailored to Each Item: We regularly hold auctions at the Hôtel Drouot, whether general or specialized (jewelry, paintings, furniture, objets d’art, etc.). Each auction features an online catalog, accompanied by a print version when applicable. All our auctions are streamed live online, allowing us to reach an international clientele.
Tip: Prepare all documents related to your item (certificate of authenticity, provenance history, invoices, etc.) to facilitate the appraisal process.
2. THE SALE MANDATE
Once the appraisal is complete and your decision to sell is confirmed, a sales mandate is drawn up.
This official document specifies:
- The sales fees.
- The reserve price, if you set one (the minimum amount below which the property cannot be sold).
- The specific terms and conditions of the sale.
This contract ensures complete transparency and establishes the legal framework for the auction, giving you complete peace of mind throughout the sales process.
3. SHOWCASING YOUR ITEM
Each item is carefully photographed and featured in an online auction catalog, sometimes accompanied by a print version. Descriptions are written with precision to highlight every aspect of the lot.
The items are displayed prior to the sale at a public exhibition, allowing potential buyers to examine them closely and ask questions of our experts and auctioneers.
Our teams ensure targeted promotion of your items to buyers, collectors, and institutions worldwide through numerous communication channels: the Gazette Drouot and specialized press, social media, newsletters, and the catalog.
4. AUCTION DAY
During the public auction, the auctioneer presents each lot and conducts the bidding with precision and energy.
Thanks to live coverage in the auction room, online, and by phone, your items benefit from optimal visibility and can attract buyers from around the world.
The Sale: Once the gavel falls, the item is officially sold to the highest bidder.
You will be notified of the sale results shortly after the auction closes.
5. SALE STATEMENT & PAYMENT
After the sale, you will receive the sales statement showing the amount due to you, which corresponds to the total of the winning bids for the sold lots, minus the sales fees agreed upon in advance in the sales mandate.
Once the item has been sold and payment has been made by the buyer, the proceeds will be transferred to you via secure bank transfer within the legal timeframe of 2 months, after deducting the sales fees agreed upon in the sales mandate.
Throughout the process, our team is available to answer your questions and provide you with the best possible support until the sale is finalized. Please don’t hesitate to contact us!