Ancient Art and Antiquities

Christie’s is the market leader for antiquities and ancient works of art and the only auction house to hold auctions in both New York and London. Four times a year, the department offers the finest examples of Classical and Egyptian sculpture, arms and armour, Attic and South Italian pottery, and ancient Greek, Roman and Near Eastern gemstones and jewellery, achieving world record results by attracting a wide range of collectors — both dedicated antiquities collectors and new buyers.

Recent successes include Arms and Armour from the Mougins Museum of Classical Art, Part I, which was 100% sold by lot and nearly doubled its pre-sale low estimate (January 2024); a Roman sardonyx cameo of the Emperor Claudius, formerly in the Arundel and Rothschild collections, which sold for $2,107,000 (estimate $200,000-300,000, October 2023); a Greek Bronze Head of Eros, which realised £1,855,000, the highest price achieved for any antiquity globally that year (July 2024); and a monumental Roman marble janiform herm head, which sold for £567,000 (December 2024).

Christie’s commitment to expertise, research and provenance makes it the go-to house for collectors worldwide. In addition to our auctions, the department has a robust private sales programme year-round.

Our global team of specialists is available for free and confidential valuations or to discuss the market for your antiquities. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss buying or selling at auction or through private sale.