Specialist, 20th and 21st Century Art, China at Christie’s

Organisation: Christie’s
Location: Beijing, China
Salary: Not specified
Contract: Full-time
Application deadline: 31 December 2026

Christie’s is seeking a Specialist in twentieth- and twenty-first-century art to develop business, research and catalogue artworks, and coordinate sales in China. Working closely with a global team of specialists, the postholder will combine art-historical expertise with knowledge of relevant markets and client relationship management.

Responsibilities

The Specialist will build and maintain relationships with collectors, dealers, corporations and institutions, including clients selling high-value works. They will source consignments, support sales and collaborate with overseas specialists on appraisals and new business opportunities.

Research responsibilities include assessing artworks’ sale potential and value, investigating authenticity, provenance, bibliography and exhibition history, and preparing catalogue essays and condition reports. The postholder will also contribute to catalogue production and pre-sale exhibition installation.

The role involves working with buyers before auctions, participating in telephone bidding, supporting targeted marketing and preparing information for press and communications teams. The Specialist will monitor competitors’ auctions and represent Christie’s at events and art fairs.

Candidate profile

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant art-history field or equivalent professional experience, alongside at least five years of paid experience in a related field. A master’s degree is preferred.

Chinese language proficiency is required. Candidates should understand the auction business and demonstrate experience appraising artworks and securing business.

Christie’s seeks strong communication, client service and organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities within a team. Benefits include a discretionary bonus, annual leave, medical and life insurance, an Employee Assistance Programme and wellness support.