Cataloguer, Chinese Works of Art

THE ROLE

To catalogue, research and co-ordinate for the CWOA sales and to assist in the general day-to-day functioning of the department.

RESPONSIBLITIES

• Cataloguing and researching items for CWOA sales:

• • Providing expertise, researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard according to scheduled deadlines.
  • Assisting and co-ordinating research, both internally and with external experts.
  • Assisting with paste-ups and layouts.
  • Liaising with the necessary support departments.

• Writing scholarly catalogue entries.
• Writing and producing proposals for new business.
• Dealing with day-to-day client enquiries at the counter, by email and on the telephone.
• Writing condition reports and responding to estimate enquiries and general correspondence.
• Assisting with the maintenance of departmental archives and the library.
• Work with the Administrator, providing accurate information on all consignments and assisting them with the Inventory review.
• Operating at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate governance, maintaining high levels of expertise and professionalism in all activities.
• Provide administrative support to the department specialists, including: typing correspondence and valuations maintaining files

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Education to degree level in History of Art ideally with some knowledge and experience of CWOA
• First class research skills
• Fluent in Chinese Language
• The ability to work effectively individually and in a team and to ‘pitch in’ when required
• An eye for detail and a methodical approach
• Ability to work well under pressure and a flexible approach to a wide range of tasks
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to an exemplary level of client service
• Self-motivated with enthusiasm to learn
• Strong organisational skills with proven ability of meeting deadlines
• Some understanding of Sotheby’s and its culture and services, and of the auction process in general
• Knowledge of at least one other European language, preferably German, would be advantageous.