Artcurial in the First Half of 2014: Leading French Auction House
Paris—During the first half of 2014, Artcurial realised a sales total of 105 M?? / 142 M$, up 14.6% on the same period in 2013, with some 61 sales organised across twenty different specialist fields.
This figure does not include the Collectors’ Car sale on 5 July 2014 (estimate : ?? 9M), the Furniture and Decorative Objects sale on 8 July 2014 (estimate ?? 1.5M) or the sales taking place in Monte Carlo on 22 - 24 July 2014 (Jewellery, Collectors’ Watches, Hermès Vintage - estimate : ??10M), that could take Artcurial’s sales total above ??125 M?? / 170 M$ by the end of July.
The variety and high quality of the works coming under the hammer has been endorsed by 50 preemptions or acquisitions made by French and International museums, 18 world records and 11 lots selling for over ?? 1-million.
Furthermore, Artcurial has continued to develop its individuality through its support for “the passion of collectors”. Its expertise in the valuation of collections, particularly those with strong “cultural significance”, has led to the sale of 21 private collections during the first half of the year.
« The excellent results for the first half of 2014 are recognition of the unique character of Artcurial which has always strived to place culture at the heart of its activity. Our auction house is recognised internationally today : 70% of our buyers come from outside France**. Our aim is to maintain this position as a cultural player in France and abroad. The opening of a new office in Vienna next September is part of this strategy. » explained Francis Briest, Artcurial Co-Chairman.
François Tajan, Artcurial Co-Chairman adds « Once again, Artcurial’s diversity and dynamism has enabled us to record growth in double digits. The broad spectrum offered by the house is an endorsement of its commitment to be present in all areas of reference at auction and also to continue to innovate. The success of the new Limited Edition and Photography sales confirms our ability to attract collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.»
In the first half of 2014, Europe and the United States have provided the two largest markets for Artcurial. In addition, the percentage of Asian clients has doubled annually over the last three years.
Artcurial continues its programme of international development :
New office to open in Vienna
Development of Asian client base
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21 private collections sold
18 world records (plus 21 records shared for the Marcilhac sale)
11 lots sold in excess of ??1-million - 70 % foreign buyers**
50 lots preempted or bought by museums
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Almost 25 M?? for Modern and Contemporary Art
30 M?? for Artcurial Motorcars
Market leader worldwide for Comic Strips
International benchmark for Design
Market leader for Prints in France
