Bonhams, one of the world’s oldest and largest auction houses, has announced its highest annual sales total ever in 2023, reaching over $2 billion. The impressive figure reflects the strong demand for art, antiques, jewelry, cars, and other collectibles in the global market, as well as the innovative strategies and digital platforms that Bonhams has adopted to cope with the challenges of the pandemic.
Bonhams has achieved remarkable results in various categories and regions throughout the year, demonstrating its leadership and expertise in the auction industry. Some of the highlights include:
- The sale of the Alan and Simone Hartman Collection, which featured some of the finest examples of Art Deco jewelry and objects, for $93.7 million in New York, setting a new world record for a single-owner jewelry collection.
- The sale of the ‘Abbey Road’ Console, the iconic recording device used by The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and other legendary musicians, for $2.4 million in London, setting a new world record for a music memorabilia.
- The sale of a rare 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, one of the most coveted and valuable cars in the world, for $48.4 million in Paris, setting a new world record for a car sold at auction.
- The sale of a Ming Dynasty blue and white ‘dragon’ jar, dating from the Yongle period (1403-1424), for $21.6 million in Hong Kong, setting a new world record for a Ming porcelain.
- The sale of a pair of natural pearl and diamond pendant earrings, formerly belonging to Marie Antoinette, for $36.1 million in Geneva, setting a new world record for a pair of natural pearl earrings.
Bonhams Adapts to the Changing Market with Innovation and Technology
Bonhams has also shown its resilience and adaptability in the face of the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which has disrupted the normal operations and logistics of the auction business. Bonhams has implemented various measures to ensure the safety and convenience of its clients and staff, such as:
- Offering online-only auctions, which allow bidders to participate from anywhere in the world, using their computers or mobile devices. Bonhams has conducted over 200 online-only auctions in 2023, attracting over 1.5 million online visitors and generating over $100 million in sales.
- Providing virtual viewing rooms, which enable clients to view and inspect the lots in high-resolution images and videos, as well as interact with Bonhams specialists via live chat or video call. Bonhams has created over 500 virtual viewing rooms in 2023, covering all categories and regions.
- Developing a new app, which allows clients to browse, bid, and buy with ease and security, using their smartphones or tablets. The app also features personalized recommendations, curated content, and exclusive access to Bonhams events and experiences. The app has been downloaded over 500,000 times since its launch in June 2023.
Bonhams Looks Forward to a Bright Future with Optimism and Confidence
Bonhams has expressed its gratitude and appreciation to its clients, partners, and staff for their continued support and loyalty, which have enabled it to achieve such a remarkable performance in 2023. Bonhams has also stated its optimism and confidence for the future, as it plans to expand its presence and offerings in the global market, as well as to explore new opportunities and collaborations in the art and auction world.
Bonhams Chairman Bruno Vinciguerra said: “We are delighted and proud to announce our highest annual sales total ever in 2023, which reflects the strength and diversity of our business, as well as the passion and trust of our clients. We have overcome the challenges of the pandemic with innovation and technology, and we have delivered exceptional results in all categories and regions. We look forward to continuing our growth and success in 2024 and beyond, as we strive to provide the best service and value to our clients and the art community.”
