An appraisals firm in New York is looking for an Appraiser of Fine Art to join their dynamic team. The successful candidate will be responsible for cataloguing, research, valuation, review of independent contractor work, and review of property. In addition to being abreast of current market trends they are looking for a skilled appraiser who has a deep understanding of USPAP in Fine Art, as well as a curiosity for all the areas in which the firm appraises. As a member of the company and in partnership with team members the Fine Art Appraiser will support all efforts to meet client needs and workload demands. They are also an active participant in the appraisal community, involved in industry networks and attending local, relevant networking and educational events. As an integral team member working closely with a wide variety of international appraisers, this person will reliably and consistently communicate with all specialists as it pertains to expertise and questions that only another appraiser can answer. The person in this role will write, refine and be a part of the production of appraisal reports, ensuring consistency and compliance with IRS standards, USPAP and the Appraisers Association of American code of ethics. This is a fully remote role with a technology forward company that requires being located within the five boroughs of New York City, to be on-hand for client site visits and regular meetings with company colleagues. 5+ years of relevant valuation and cataloguing experience in an auction house setting or similar is required.
Catalogue property for appraisal and valuation to the highest of standards
Research property for comparables, bibliography, provenance, and exhibition history using libraries, online databases, the internet, and outside experts (such as curators, dealers, publishers, etc.) as necessary for proper valuation and cataloguing
Participate in complete appraisal process: quoting, cataloguing, collaborating with and assisting outside specialists, reviewing appraisal reports for clear valuation analysis, methodology and USPAP compliancy before sending to Lead Specialist for final approval
Participate in on-site inspections (photography, cataloguing, conditioning) to determine value and marketability of items with enough generalist knowledge to triage multi-category collections of substantial size
Contribute to ongoing accuracy and maintenance of company client data, project archives, appraisal work-files, comparable and image library records
Review general queries related to valuation of works for appraisal or consulting purposes; you have the ability to triage and identify key areas of value within multi-category collections and the market knowledge of advantageous sale venues
Continuously develop specialist knowledge to build credibility, understanding and awareness of the current market within and outside your area of expertise
Maintain USPAP compliance and work towards Appraisers Association of America certified membership within an agreed upon time period with management
Understanding of methodology needed for various appraisal types; including but not limited to donations, insurance schedules and claims, estate tax, etc.
Work on appraisals as a means of generating, identifying, and maintaining current and future client relationships
Act as a trusted advisor to priority clients with the utmost discretion, anticipating needs and understanding their interests
Work closely with all senior and junior colleagues across departments to identify opportunities and ideas which are in alignment with our strategy for the continued growth and development of the business
Be an active, supporting participant in company social media efforts; reposting on LinkedIn, liking and commenting, etc.
Support the effort and expansion of the company’s brand awareness and services
Bachelor’s degree in Art History or Fine Arts required; Master’s from accredited university, Christie’s Education or Sotheby’s Institute or PhD candidates given preference
Deep understanding of USPAP preferred
5+ years of relevant valuation and cataloguing experience in an auction house setting or similar required
Critical thinking skills and ability to be the devil’s advocate both within and without your specific area of expertise to support the company’s industry standing as a thought leader in appraisal methodology
Broad knowledge and exposure with dealers and collectors
Ability to confidently provide support to external specialists and valuation guidance to team members
Exceptional writing skills and experience in appraising property, research skills, market knowledge, valuing property across all periods, mediums, and origins. with thorough organizational ability, and keen eye for detail
Ability and willingness to learn proprietary database systems
Advanced level computer skills: including but not limited to Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
Confidence to effectively present information and respond to queries with superior written and spoken communication skills with sensitivity to client confidentiality and team needs
Required to handle, inspect and/or photograph works of art in a variety of conditions, spaces, and environments; as well as create written or recorded descriptions
A cooperative team player who can receive and implement feedback, work under tight deadlines, and remain calm in challenging situations
Strong organizations skills including ability to multi-task, prioritize workload, and follow-up with acute attention to detail
A thorough and focused self-starter with the proven ability to initiate business and new ideas, and the curiosity, passion, commitment to continually develop their expertise
Based in New York City, hold a valid driver’s license, with willingness and flexibility to travel and participate in onsite inspections
Flexibility to work outside traditional business hours when necessary
Secondary language a plus
Submit a cover letter and resume to recruiting@murkandco.com with “jobs.art, Job #7324” in the subject line.