About this Event
A revealing tour of Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Bonhams, offering behind-the-scenes access alongside the opportunity to attend previews and observe live auctions in progress.
The tour provides a comprehensive explanation of the auction process, from viewing and valuation to buying and selling, including the legal framework, established conventions, and potential pitfalls.
The experience is complemented by visits to selected dealers and galleries in and around St James’s and Bond Street, as well as introductions to key support services such as restorers and framers providing a fascinating insight into the expertise, precision, and craftsmanship that underpin the art world.
Discover how artworks are sourced, authenticated, valued, conserved, and brought to market, gaining perspectives typically reserved for collectors, specialists, and industry insiders.
EVENT PROGRAMME
The session begins 10.00 at Bonhams Knightsbridge (Montpellier Street, London, SW7 1HH).
Participants will be given a handout which summarises important points raised on the day with links to obtain further help.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A clear understanding of the auction process, from viewing to buying and valuation to selling, including the legal framework, established conventions, and potential pitfalls.
Please note:
- There will be a scheduled lunch break to allow participants time to stop and refresh, as well as ‘comfort breaks’ throughout the day. Lunch is not included in the ticket price.
- Places are strictly limited to 15 people.
- The group will travel from venue to venue via London Transport, and the cost of this travel is not included in the ticket price.
- The day will involve a reasonable amount of walking time.
WHAT YOU WILL LEAVE WITH
The insight, expertise, and confidence to navigate the auction world with authority, enabling you to acquire and consign artworks successfully for yourself and your clients.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Anyone with an open, curious, and discerning mindset who wishes to gain a comprehensive and confident grasp of the auction process, from viewing and bidding to valuation and selling, including the legal framework, established conventions, and the potential pitfalls to avoid.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Anthony Thompson: Director - Anthony Thompson Ltd
Anthony is an art world specialist with over 48 years’ experience as an auctioneer, specialist, art adviser and tour guide. He spent fourteen years at Christie's (King Street) where he served as Director, auctioneer and Head of the Islamic and Indian Art Department (1977–1990). For more than twenty years, Anthony has led art tours for individuals and small groups, including for BIID, delivering immersive, carefully curated experiences across London’s museums, galleries, exhibitions, architectural landmarks and the commercial art market.
His tours are designed to deepen appreciation and understanding of fine and applied art, bringing artworks and architectural masterpieces vividly to life through insight, expertise, and engaging interpretation. Anthony continues his research in art history and neuroaesthetics and maintains an extensive professional network across the UK and internationally, ensuring his work remains informed, current, and richly connected.
ABOUT THE VENUES
Founded in 1766, Christie’s is one of the world’s leading auction houses, renowned for its expertise in fine art, luxury, and collectibles. Its historic King Street headquarters in St James’s has been at the heart of the international art market for over 250 years, hosting landmark sales across Old Masters, modern and contemporary art, jewellery, design, and more.
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is a global leader in art, luxury, and collectibles auctions. Located in the heart of New Bond Street, its London galleries are a major hub for exhibitions and high-profile sales spanning fine art, rare books, jewellery, and contemporary works.
Founded in 1793, Bonhams is one of the world’s oldest and largest auctioneers. Its New Bond Street saleroom is known for specialist expertise across fine art, antiques, motor cars, jewellery, and luxury items, attracting collectors from around the globe.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This event is open to all. Please note that the tour involves walking considerable distances within the St James’s and Bond Street area, as well as negotiating steps inside venues. A reasonable level of mobility and comfort with walking is required. An open and curious mindset is all that’s needed otherwise.
Limited spaces available. Book early to secure your place!
If this event is fully booked, please join the waiting list. If you are no longer able to attend, please inform the office so that we can give your spot to someone else.
The advertised price does not include VAT and lunch is not included.
This event is in-person and is equivalent to 6 hours of structured CPD
BIID member rate is open to Registered Interior Designers, Associate members, Provisional Associate members, Student members, Affiliate members, Retired members, Dual International members, and Registered Design Practice employees. Go to the to secure your promo code to add at the Eventbrite Checkout. This is a member benefit, please do not share the code with non-members.
If you have any queries, please email the office at [email protected] or call 020 7628 0255.
By booking a ticket to this event you are agreeing to the BIID event terms and conditions
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Bonhams, 101 New Bond Street, London, United Kingdom
GBP 270.00
