Auction Update Review
Week 7, Spring 2010
Four Auctions Archived through February 27, 2010
Bloomsbury London, Swann and Bloomsbury in New York and Bonhams in Oxford, UK combined to sell a superb 80% of all lots archived this past week. Total sales reached $2.0 million.
In the downturn auction houses have been negotiating with consignors to bring estimates into line with the current reduced prospects. The principal dealers have then entered the rooms to bid on material that is more appropriately reserved. Where collectors have stepped in their participation has been encouraged. These days it is a combination of institutions, rare book libraries, collectors and dealers that deserve credit for stabilizing the rare book market so quickly.
Bruce McKinney
February 21, 2010
Four Auctions Archived through February 27, 2010
Bloomsbury London, Swann and Bloomsbury in New York and Bonhams in Oxford, UK combined to sell a superb 80% of all lots archived this past week. Total sales reached $2.0 million.
In the downturn auction houses have been negotiating with consignors to bring estimates into line with the current reduced prospects. The principal dealers have then entered the rooms to bid on material that is more appropriately reserved. Where collectors have stepped in their participation has been encouraged. These days it is a combination of institutions, rare book libraries, collectors and dealers that deserve credit for stabilizing the rare book market so quickly.
Bruce McKinney
February 21, 2010