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Valuer/Auctioneer

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Valuer/Auctioneer Career Details

Valuers who specialise in fine and decorative arts assess the market price of antiques and collectables for clients. These can include items such as paintings, sculpture, jewellery, porcelain, books and furniture. Valuers make a detailed examination of the condition, appearance, age and authenticity of the item before arriving at a valuation figure.

A valuer must have an appreciation of an item's aesthetic, cultural and social importance, together with in-depth knowledge of the current and future market trends for particular pieces, periods or categories of items.

Valuations can be undertaken for a number of purposes including inheritance tax, insurance, loss adjustment, family division, probate, bankruptcy and liquidation. The work includes compiling detailed inventories of items, ensuring the safe transportation of goods to the sale or auction, producing auction catalogues and other marketing materials, and conducting the auction process.

Valuers may be called upon to act as expert witnesses in disputed cases which have gone to court.

Working Environment

Hours are often irregular, involving evening and weekend work.

Some valuers are based in offices in dealerships and auction houses; others may travel to clients' homes or businesses to discuss and carry out valuations. Travel could be local, national or overseas, depending on client requirements.

Valuer/Auctioneer Related Skills

To be a valuer of fine arts and antiques you should:
  • have an excellent knowledge of the sector
  • have an awareness of market trends and how to interpret them
  • have excellent presentation and communication skills
  • be able to pay close attention to detail
  • have up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation
  • be willing to undergo continual professional development.

Valuer/Auctioneer Career Opportunities

Opportunities for valuers of fine arts exist within auction houses, and fine art or antique dealerships. Insurance firms also employ qualified valuers to work in the industry, particularly in the area of loss adjustment.

Posts may be available with museums and galleries or with private collectors, managing their collections and overseeing insurance, conservation or restoration work. Additionally, regional and national heritage organisations employ valuers in specialist roles to assess acquisitions.

Many valuers set up their own business in the antiques trade, offering a valuation service as well as buying and selling fine arts and antiques.

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