Art Markets and the Art Trade: An Introduction to the Archives & Library

PMC’s Archives & Library hold extensive collections relating to the history of art markets and the art trade in Britain, mostly dating from the late nineteenth century onwards. These range from the archived papers of art dealers, collectors and art historians, through to our collection of around 15,000 auction catalogues.

This group visit will provide an introductory overview of these holdings. It is open to all researchers interested in art markets and the art trade, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, academics and those working in the art trade today.

Programme

2.50pm – 3pm: Arrival at Reception

3pm – 4pm: Introduction to Archives & Library holdings

The visit will begin with an introduction to the history of PMC and an overview of the Archives, Library and Photographic Archive collections, before focusing in on materials relating to the art trade and art markets. Participants will be introduced to Collected Archives such as the Lucy Wertheim Archive, the Oliver Millar Archive , and the Frank Simpson Archive (containing material relating to Knoedler & Co.). We will also showcase our extensive collection of auction catalogues, including many rare and annotated examples, as well as other holdings relevant for provenance research.

Attendees will be shown how to access the collections and given a chance to register as a Reader.

4pm – 4.30pm: Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served and there will be a chance to talk further with the PMC’s staff, and network with other attendees.

Please note that this event will be held in the Public Study Room on the lower ground floor. Please refer to the Building Accessibility Guide for more information.