Christie's Asian Art Department Assistant

About Christie's

Founded in London in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s is a leading international auction house whose heritage spans fine art, decorative arts, jewellery and exceptional collectibles. Through auctions, private sales and digital platforms, it connects collectors with remarkable objects and the expertise that brings their histories to life. As an employer, Christie’s offers career paths across specialist departments, client services, marketing, technology and operations within a global, culturally rich environment. Its work calls for intellectual curiosity, discretion and meticulous attention to detail, appealing to professionals who value scholarship, commercial acumen and the exacting standards of the international art and luxury markets.

Role & Responsibilities

• Conduct bibliographic research essential to the appraisal of lots, in libraries, at the office, online and in archives.
• Assist with preparing inventories and drafting and formatting auction catalogues.
• Prepare descriptive sheets for appraisals and sale files, including photography and condition reports.
• Support the department’s day-to-day administrative tasks, particularly managing lot photography and locating artworks.
• Assist with the physical logistics of artworks, including moving them in storage and to partner locations.
• Draft client correspondence and manage the department’s mail.
• Monitor the market, including tracking Christie’s and its competitors’ sale results.
• Contribute to the general organization of upcoming auctions.
• Attend client appointments occasionally.

Qualifications

• Currently studying in the third year of a Bachelor’s degree or at Master’s level in Art History, the art market, or a dual-degree programme with a business school or an Institute of Political Studies (IEP), or equivalent.
• Interest in Asian art.
• Significant experience, such as a long-term internship.
• Fluent English and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Reliable, with excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities and a collaborative approach.
• Strong writing skills in French and English, with genuine enthusiasm for or curiosity about Asian art.
• A school-issued internship agreement is required.
• A cover letter is mandatory.

Skills

Experience

Significant experience, such as a long-term internship.

Education

Third-year Bachelor’s or Master’s student in Art History, the art market, or a dual-degree programme with a business school or IEP, or equivalent.

Benefits

€900 gross monthly internship allowance; €10 per-day meal vouchers, with €5 covered by Christie’s; reimbursement of 50% of transport costs.

Culture

Christie’s workplace culture centres on specialist expertise, intellectual curiosity and a shared appreciation for art and exceptional objects, with discretion and attentive client service shaping its professional environment. Its international auction business brings together specialists and colleagues across disciplines, combining a distinguished heritage with an evolving approach to digital engagement and the global art market.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.