A Collector's Guide to Buying Contemporary Art at Auction
Buying contemporary art at auction can offer access to works rarely available on the primary market — but the process has its own conventions, fees, and risks. Mondoir's auction representation service helps collectors bid confidently.
Mondoir is a global contemporary art platform with a Dubai gallery that ships original artworks worldwide. We work with emerging and established artists across painting, sculpture, photography, and limited-edition prints — with full authentication, provenance, and white-glove logistics.
Major auction houses for contemporary art include Christie's, Sotheby's, Phillips, Bonhams, and major regional houses. Buyer's premium typically adds 25–28% to the hammer price; condition reports, provenance research, and authentication should be independently verified.
Mondoir can provide pre-auction condition assessment, comparable-sales analysis, bidding representation, and post-sale logistics — confidentially.
Frequently asked questions
What is buyer's premium?
An additional fee added to the hammer price, typically 25–28%, paid to the auction house. Mondoir always quotes total inclusive cost when advising.
Do you bid on behalf of clients?
Yes — confidentially, with pre-agreed maximums. Our representation fee is transparent and structured per engagement.