Bonhams

Bonhams is a renowned international auction house with a rich history that spans over two centuries. Established in 1793 by Thomas Dodd, an enterprising bookseller and auctioneer, the company initially focused on selling books, manuscripts, and prints in London. Over time, Bonhams expanded its offerings to include fine art, antiques, jewelry, and other luxury items, becoming a significant player in the global auction market.

Throughout its history, Bonhams has been associated with several notable events and milestones. In 1855, the company auctioned off the famous "Holkham Bible," a 14th-century illuminated manuscript, for a record-breaking sum at the time. In the early 20th century, Bonhams played a crucial role in the development of the British art market by conducting sales for prominent artists such as Sir Alfred Gilbert and Frederic Leighton.

Bonhams' global reach has grown significantly over the years, with the company establishing offices and representatives in 22 countries. This expansion has allowed Bonhams to cater to a diverse clientele and offer a wide range of items, from early works of art and Old Master sculpture to contemporary design and modern collectibles. The company's expertise extends to various mediums, including ivory, marble, alabaster, stone, wood, terracotta, bronze, plaster, and decorative objects such as urns, tazze, candelabra, chimneypieces, fire-grates, desk sets, boxes, and tea caddies.

In recent years, Bonhams has continued to innovate and adapt to the changing auction landscape. In 2018, the company introduced a new online bidding platform, allowing clients to participate in auctions from anywhere in the world. This digital transformation has helped Bonhams to reach a broader audience and maintain its position as a leading auction house.