Paintings Specialist

Posted: 18.06.2026

Contract Type: Full-time

Job Type: Permanent

Pay: Negotiable

Location: South West of England UK

Tenure: Permanent

Job description:

A respected and growing Fine Art Auction House is seeking a Paintings Specialist to join its specialist department. This opportunity is open to candidates ranging from Junior Specialist level through to Senior Specialist, with remuneration and responsibilities tailored to experience.

The successful candidate will have a genuine passion for paintings, strong market knowledge, and previous experience working within an auction house environment.

Key Responsibilities

Cataloguing and researching paintings for auction sales
Preparing condition reports and specialist descriptions
Valuing works for auction, probate, insurance, and private clients
Consigning property and developing relationships with collectors, dealers, and institutions
Supporting and attending valuation days, client events, and business-getting opportunities
Contributing to catalogue production, marketing initiatives, and sale strategy
Assisting with auction viewings and sale-day activities
Building and maintaining a strong network within the art market

Candidate Profile

Previous experience within an auction house is essential
Specialism in Old Master, British, European, Modern, Contemporary, or 20th Century Paintings considered
Strong research and cataloguing skills
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
Client-facing experience and confidence in developing new business
Commercial awareness and understanding of the art market
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment

Experience Level

We are keen to hear from candidates at various stages of their careers, including:

Assistant or Junior Specialists looking for the next step
Specialist-level candidates seeking greater responsibility
Senior Specialists with an established client network and business-getting track record