Furniture & Decorative Arts Cataloguer

Description

Who We Are

At Freeman’s we believe that people are enriched and energized when they are surrounded with objects of significance and meaning. Freeman’s is one of the leading and fastest growing fine art auction houses in the U.S. Our values are evident in how we approach the marketplace, providing unmatched service, a focus on excellence, and holding the utmost respect for our clients and the items we steward. As a globally recognized brand, we conduct over 100 auctions each year for everything from contemporary paintings and fine jewelry to French furniture and rare books. With salerooms in Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia, we stay locally relevant while passionately catering to our global sellers and buyers.

Position Summary

The Cataloguer plays a vital role within the department, contributing to the accurate and compelling presentation of consigned property for auction. This position requires a meticulous eye for detail, strong research skills, and a passion for the subject matter. The Cataloguer collaborates with Specialists to ensure that high-quality, engaging, and accurate descriptions are prepared for both print materials and online auction catalogs, meeting deadlines and upholding the brand's reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and authenticate consigned material, for both auction and private sales, including dating, identifying relevant markings, and reporting condition. 
• Research the authenticity, provenance, and historical significance of items.
• Craft engaging and factually accurate catalogue entries, including footnotes, essays and biographies. 
• Maintain and organize departmental research materials and library resources.
• Oversee and coordinate the cataloging process, ensuring all property is correctly categorized, dated, and described according to departmental standards.
• Liaise with photographers to ensure accurate and high-quality images are captured and color-proofed for online and print collateral.
• Proofread all catalogue entries for accuracy and consistency.
• Assist with providing marketing materials and content
• Prepare condition reports for potential buyers and respond to cataloging inquiries from clients.
• Assist clients during previews and sales, including speaking about property and executing bids.
• Contribute to the promotion of auctions by tracking client interest and collaborating with other departments to reach new consignors.
• Assist with the valuation of works for auction, including responding to phone, written and online platform estimate requests in timely manner.
• Work closely with Specialists to learn and develop expertise and market knowledge 
• Provide support to Specialists with administrative tasks and workflow management.
• Actively participate in department meetings and contribute to the success of each sale.
• Assist with authentication processes, including communication, shipment and or couriering
• Given the global nature of our business, may work outside of normal business hours or across departments (e.g., with Accounting or Operations) to assist clients with particular needs
• Other duties as assigned

Education & Experience

• 3+ years’ experience in a related field with an auction background preferred
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Art History or relevant related field, required; Master’s Degree preferred

Skills

• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent writing and proofreading.
• Strong client service orientation with professionalism and discretion.
• Detail-oriented with excellent follow-up, multitasking, and time management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word and Excel).
• Able to thrive in fast-paced environments, work under pressure, and meet strict deadlines.
• Highly motivated and eager to contribute to a dynamic team.

Values

• Excellence: Setting the standard in auction and appraisal services through expertise and meticulous attention to detail.
• Integrity: Upholding honesty and transparency in all interactions with clients, partners, and colleagues. 
• Judgment: Incorporating experience, empathy, and integrity to always deliver client centric decisions and actions that uphold our brand. 
• Collaboration: Working together with our team and clients to achieve shared goals and exceed expectations. 
• Responsiveness: Delivering timely and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of every client.

What We Offer

• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Choose from Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision & Dental Plans (PPO & HDHP options available).
• Generous Paid Time Off.
• 11 Paid Holidays – Enjoy 11 company-paid holidays throughout the year.
• Extended Holiday Office Closure.
• Up to 12 Weeks of Fully Paid Parental Leave.
• Company-Paid Short & Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• Company-Paid Group Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Physical Needs

• Perform light physical tasks, including lifting and moving items such as boxes, files, and other materials up to 20 pounds, unless otherwise specified.
• Operate standard office equipment proficiently, including phones, computers, copiers, and other commonly used devices or software applications.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal teams and external contacts; sufficient hearing is required for routine interactions.
• Understand and accurately process written materials and documentation.
• Work efficiently in a traditional office environment, including extended periods of sitting, with the flexibility to adapt to various work settings as needed.