Butterfields.com is a London, UK art and antiques auction firm founded in 1793
Title
Bonhams 1793: Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
Description
Recognized as one of the most dynamic auction houses in the world today, Bonhams & Butterfields Auctioneers is one of the largest companies of its kind in the world. A house of experts in many fields, Bonhams & Butterfields specializes in the appraisal and sale of fine art, antiques and decorative objects in virtually every auction category. Bonhams & Butterfields continues its tradition as the premier West Coast auction house by providing a wide selection of property in every category combined with excellent customer service and professional expertise.
It started in 1865 when William Butterfield turned in his sheriff's badge and six-shooter for an auctioneer gavel. The doors to Marble Head Auctioneers, on what is now the site of an icon in the San Francisco skyline, the Transamerica Pyramid, first opened for business catering to thriving Gold-Rush Californians. At first, the offerings consisted mainly of surplus goods consigned by sailing ships entering the San Francisco harbor. As the city became more prosperous and sophisticated and the Victorian era unfolded, demand for fine art and furnishings grew. Mr. Butterfield realized the need for a place where private people could buy and sell their possessions and adapted his business accordingly.
Mr. Fred R. Butterfield, William's son, joined the firm in 1914, just prior to the great upsurge in the auction market following WWI. It was Fred Butterfield's ambition that placed Butterfields at par with the greatest sales rooms of London.
