Collection D. in Salzburg

I had already been in contact with the heirs years ago, to whom I was recommended and who offered me objects from their own collection at the time. I was able to purchase a number of items and we have very fond memories of our appreciative meeting and professional handling.

The family contacted me a second time when they decided to sell the collection they had inherited from their parents in Salzburg. The fact that the parents were antique dealers increased my interest.

In order to be able to assess what to expect, I asked for photographs. It was a large collection. The items on offer were varied and ranged from small treasures in peasant silver, wax, wood, ivory and silver to sacred figures, pewter, clay, glass, leather objects and furniture.

The family initially expected advice on how to approach the disposal process. They would prefer to sell everything in its entirety.

On my first visit, I tried to take stock of the extensive collection by creating categories and grading the quality. I documented the objects with photos and were taking notes. The size of the collection then led to the following questions:

What would I like to acquire?

For which objects can I recommend a colleague?

What makes sense to sell at auction?

Which objects should be checked again by the heirs to see whether they should remain in the family?

My task until the next meeting was to look up one or two objects in the specialist literature, think about specific offers and contact colleagues who specialize in areas that apply here. The family arranged an appointment with experts from the auction house.

After a few weeks, we met again on site and exchanged information. At this appointment, I also took a close look at the objects I was interested in. We went through the apartment and discussed quality and price. Then we had to go through a cupboard with countless small special features. We looked in every box and every drawer. Suddenly, the client embraced me with shining eyes and said how happy he was that we were working through the collection of parents together with such great appreciation. He had waited seven years to embark on this project.

A project like this has many levels. It’s about saying goodbye and about memories. There are many decisions to be made. I was very pleased with his gesture and noticed the approval of the other family members. As retailers, we must not forget how important these moments are for the people concerned. It’s a gift for all when it works.