Frequently Asked Questions

We hold regular monthly Antique and Fine Art auctions and are well known because we have been in business since 1989, occupying prominent high profile premises in both Dublin and Oldcastle, County Meath. Our auction rooms are an intimate and sympathetic setting for the display of antiques and fine art. Damien Matthews heads the probate department which deals with probate valuations and sales. In addition he advises executors on security and provides safe-keeping facilities for valuable items. Clients usually come to us because we have acted for them before or we have been recommended by friends or professional advisers. Commission is charged to sellers at 17.5% plus Vat and there is a lotting fee of €5 per lot. We may offer special rates for valuable individual items or collections. A loss and damage warranty of 1.5% will also apply.

Will you come to my house and give advice on value and reserves?

I visit clients to advise them on values of antiques and fine art where they are unable to bring them in to us. I am prepared to travel nationwide. We do not normally make any charge for this service. We offer a free email valuation service for clients. Just email an image and dimensions and we shall contact you about possible sale values

Can you offer specialist advice on value?

I am an experienced  antique and fine art valuer and have to deal with all of the things one might usually come across but where  asked to value specialist items and collections we have specialists in all areas who we can call upon to assist us in advising our clients.

How do you market your sales?

We have a large buyer’s mailing list for catalogues and advertise our auctions in the press locally, nationally and occasionally internationally - should particular items/collections warrant it. We have an extensive auction email alert list and post our main catalogues on the Internet via this site. We also place our more important auctions on the top UK auction website www.the-saleroom.com. All listings include images, descriptions and condition reports. This gives us an enormous increase in global coverage which in turn gives the seller the benefit of direct access to a world market of private buyers and collectors.

How can you ensure that my possessions will not be sold at prices lower than my expectations?

We advise all clients of our suggested sale estimates for inclusion in our catalogues and we can place reserves on lots being offered for sale.

How can I get my goods to the auction rooms and what does this cost?

You can either bring items in to us yourself or, if this is not practical, we can arrange collection with our experienced carriers. A small charge will apply for this service depending on time and distance.

What happens if any of my goods are damaged or stolen while in your care?

This is the type of question that most auctioneers will be reluctant to address in discussions with you before a sale. We are used to handling valuable antiques but recognise that it is always possible for a problem to arise. In the unlikely event of loss or damage to their property we undertake to reimburse clients.

What happens if a lot fails to sell and what charges do I pay?

Unless lots are withdrawn after the catalogue or advertisements have been prepared we charge the vendor no fees. Should items be withdrawn before cataloging/advertising still no sale charges/fees will be applied. If you wish unsold lots can be returned to you or re-offered in a later sale at a lower reserve.

I have a house to clear. What items do you sell and will you help me dispose of rubbish and items that cannot be sold?

We shall normally be able to sell all of the saleable items in a house which are worth transporting to auction. Our carriers can also deal with clearances at charges to be agreed.

How do I know that you will safeguard the money that you hold for me?

I am very rarely asked this important question. As auctioneers we collect purchase monies and hold them for clients pending settlement. The funds that we hold for our clients are protected. We are a fully licensed and bonded fine art auctioneers.

When can I expect to receive my money after a sale?

We have to collect money due in from purchasers and normally pay vendors by cheque posted 14 days after the sale. My staff and I are always pleased to answer any other questions that you might have, and to discuss the disposal of your antiques and fine art.