London has long been a global capital for fine art, antiques, rare collectibles, and luxury goods. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a first-time bidder, or simply a curious browser, London’s auction houses offer an unmatched blend of history, prestige, and access to exceptional treasures. Here are the top 5 auction houses in London, featuring their history, notable sales, and key people.
1. Christie's
Overview: Established by James Christie in 1766, Christie’s has become one of the world’s leading auction houses, renowned for its sales of art, antiques, and luxury goods. The founder was known for his charismatic auctioneering style, attracting notable clients and establishing a legacy of excellence.
Key People:
Guillaume Cerutti: Chief Executive Officer
Bonnie Brennan: President, Americas
Notable Sales: In 2017, Christie’s sold Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi” for £450.3 million, setting a record for the most expensive painting ever sold at auction.
Founded
1766
Founder
James Christie
Location
8 King Street, St. James's, London SW1Y 6QT
Best For
Auction Houses in London
2. Sotheby's
Overview: Sotheby’s was founded in 1744 by Samuel Baker, initially focusing on rare books and manuscripts. Over the centuries, it has expanded to include fine art, jewelry, and real estate, becoming a global powerhouse in the auction industry.
Key People:
Charles F. Stewart: Chief Executive Officer
Jean-Luc Berrebi: Chief Financial Officer
Notable Sales: Sotheby’s has handled numerous high-profile sales, including Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” which sold for £119.9 million in 2012.
Founded
1744
Founder
Samuel Baker
Location
34-35 New Bond Street, London W1S 2RT
Best For
Auction Houses in London
3. Bonhams
Overview: Bonhams was established in 1793 by Thomas Dodd, an antique print dealer, and George Bonham. The auction house initially specialized in fine books, artworks, and antiques, catering to an elite clientele seeking rare and valuable items.
Key People:
Bruno Vinciguerra: Chief Executive Officer
Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard: Chairman
Notable Sales: Bonhams is known for its sales of classic cars, fine art, and jewelry, including the sale of a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO for over £38 million in 2014.
Founded
1793
Founder
Thomas Dodd and Walter Bonham
Location
101 New Bond Street, London W1S 1SR
Best For
Auction Houses in London
4. Phillips
Overview: Founded in 1796 by Harry Phillips, a former senior clerk to James Christie, Phillips gained recognition by conducting auctions for notable figures, including Napoleon Bonaparte and Marie Antoinette. The auction house specializes in contemporary art, design, and luxury collectibles.
Key People:
Stephen Brooks: Chief Executive Officer
Cheyenne Westphal: Global Chairwoman
Notable Sales: Phillips is renowned for its sales of contemporary art and has achieved record prices for works by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol.
Founded
1796
Founder
Harry Phillips
Location
30 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6EX
Best For
Auction Houses in London
5. Spink & Son
Overview: Spink & Son, established in 1666 by John Spink, is one of the oldest auction houses in London. Initially a goldsmith and pawnbroker business, it has evolved into a leading auctioneer of coins, banknotes, medals, and other collectibles.
Key People:
Olivier D. Stocker: Chairman & CEO
Notable Sales: Spink has a distinguished history in numismatics and has handled significant sales of rare coins and medals, attracting collectors worldwide.
Founded
1666
Founder
John Spink
Location
69 Southampton Row, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 4ET
Best For
Auction Houses in London
