A few months ago, Collector Square, a well-known website specializing in the online sale of second-hand luxury items such as bags, watches, jewelry, and objects, expanded its offerings with the launch of Art & Collection. Headed by Claire Gallois and Pauline Desmonts, this new department focuses on art objects and aims to provide a platform for these items to find a second life.
What sets Collector Square apart is its innovative approach to meeting the demand for unique and storied objects while also providing a convenient and contemporary shopping experience. Art & Collection is divided into three main categories. The first category, works on paper, includes a wide range of art forms such as photography, paintings, lithographs, engravings, and rare vintage posters in impeccable condition. The second category focuses on interior objects carefully chosen for their quality and artist’s reputation. Among the prestigious names represented are Italian designers Gio Ponti and Ettore Sottsass, whose works are highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Finally, Art & Collection offers luxury objects from renowned brands like Dior, Hermès, and Buccellati. These brands have a rich history of collaboration with artist designers in the 70s and 80s, resulting in highly coveted pieces.
The clientele for Art & Collection is diverse, ranging from seasoned collectors on the lookout for rare finds to newcomers in the art world. What sets this new department apart is how seamlessly it integrates with Collector Square’s existing offerings. By curating art objects alongside luxury bags, the overall experience is enhanced, and customers appreciate the unique combination of domains that Collector Square offers.
Curating the selection of artworks is a meticulous process that combines Claire Gallois’s expertise in the art market with an extensive network of trusted sources. Word of mouth, as well as targeted communication and marketing efforts, also contribute to the acquisition of new pieces. Claire Gallois makes it a point to stay updated on art market trends by attending auctions, observing flea markets, and keeping a pulse on the industry. Furthermore, Collector Square has cultivated a network of buyers who often become sellers, and vice versa.
The pricing strategy for art objects differs from other departments due to their limited availability and the fact that they are no longer in production. However, Collector Square aims to keep the prices fair and accessible, with an average price of 3000 euros. Their catalog serves as a reference for pricing, as they thoroughly research the market value of each piece. As for the selling process, they provide two options for sellers: an immediate sale to Collector Square for a quick transaction or the option to wait for the item to be sold definitively.
Collector Square understands the value and fragility of art objects, and as such, they offer various shipping options. These options include traditional shipping methods like post or specialized partnered transporters. The goal is to provide the most secure shipping solution while also offering free shipping and insurance to both buyers and sellers.
Authentication is a crucial part of the Art & Collection department. Collector Square ensures the origin and authenticity of each piece by gathering information about its pedigree and origin. Physical examination and appreciation of the object are also essential steps in the authentication process. The department focuses on art from the 1950s to the present and, if any doubts arise, they consult their network of recognized experts in specific fields.
While Collector Square is still observing the emergence of blockchain technology for certification, they find the idea of implementing it from the manufacturing stage intriguing. However, they recognize the complexity of adding a blockchain system to ensure complete traceability throughout an item’s lifecycle. As for NFTs (non-fungible tokens), the department believes it is still too early to determine their impact and is closely monitoring the development of this technology.
Art & Collection currently boasts a catalog of 300 to 400 pieces, with plans to double their offering by autumn. They are also preparing thematic events, dedicated exhibitions, and collaborations to further engage with their audience. The reopening of the showroom is eagerly anticipated, as physical display plays a vital role in presenting these art pieces. Additionally, the department will soon debut at Le Bon Marché, further expanding their reach.
In summary, Art & Collection by Collector Square offers a unique and diverse range of art objects that seamlessly blend the luxury and art worlds. With their meticulous selection process, fair pricing, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Collector Square continues to set the standard in the online luxury marketplace.
Useful links:
1. Collector Square Art & Collection
2. Collector Square Official Website
