At Keno Auctions, you are welcome to submit any items you wish to consign throughout the year. Although many of the company’s sales are done at auction, the company also transacts private treaty sales of major fine and decorative art. For example, Leigh Keno recently placed with a major folk art collector a previously unknown full-length masterpiece, c. 1805, by the celebrated deaf artist John Brewster, Jr. (1766-1854) of a young girl, Abigail, for perhaps what is a record price for the artist. In addition he found a home for a exceedingly important unique half-scale late 18th century Bonnet-top high-chest of drawers from New London County Connecticut. He also regularly handles works by 20th century Modern Masters. Several years ago, Mr. Keno advised family members on the sale of the painting "Breaking Home Ties" by Norman Rockwell, which sold for over 14 million dollars, setting a world record price for the artist at the time.
To start the consignment process, you must submit images of the item(s) you have for sale. Among the images, you must include clear pictures of the front and back of the object as well as as many detail shots as possible (along with an up-close shot of the maker’s mark or signature, if present). Any history about the object, such as how and where it was acquired, should also be included in your submission, as should copies of literature relating to the item, appraisals, or certificates of authenticity. You also need to submit the medium, dimensions, and other details of the item. If any of this information is not possible to provide, it is not essential. The most important thing to Leigh Keno is that he see clear images of the piece with as many detail photographs as possible.
Upon receiving these images, Keno Auctions will respond within a few days, but within a couple weeks at most. Once Leigh Keno or a colleague contacts you, an appointment might be made to see the piece in person. You can discuss whether a private sale or auction is best for your property. After that, you will receive an appraisal of the item’s market value and an pre-sale auction estimate. If you decide on selling, Keno Auctions will work closely with you to set final terms and details, send a Consignor Agreement, and confirm delivery arrangements. As someone who has been involved in auctions his whole life, one thing he has learned is that an easy process makes for a happy consignor! --
