Cambi

About Cambi

Cambi Casa d'Aste is one of Italy's most distinguished auction houses, operating from the spectacular setting of Castello Mackenzie in Genoa and holding a reputation for excellence in ancient art, modern art, design, and luxury collectibles. Founded in 1998, Cambi has risen quickly through the ranks of the Italian art market to become a national point of reference, distinguished by the scholarly quality of its catalogues, the breadth of its specialist departments, and unique niche specializations that set it apart from its competitors.

History and locations

The origins of Cambi trace back to a Genovese family business that had operated from premises in the historic center of Genoa since the 1970s. When the auction house was formally established in 1998, it opened its first saleroom in the Salita della Tosse premises that had housed the family enterprise, distinguishing itself internationally from the start. The move to Castello Mackenzie — a nineteenth-century castle overlooking Genoa — provided a fitting home, its grand rooms serving as both exhibition spaces and salerooms. Cambi is today the only Italian auction house to operate full saleroom facilities in two cities, with its main headquarters at Castello Mackenzie in Genoa complemented by offices and salerooms in Milan, plus additional offices in Rome and Turin.

Specialist departments

Cambi's specialist departments are organized into three macro areas: Ancient, Modern, and Luxury.

• Ancient — Old Master paintings, sculpture, furniture, and decorative arts from the Renaissance through the eighteenth century
• Modern — nineteenth-century art, Modern and Contemporary painting, and Design
• Luxury — jewelry, watches, wine, and fashion

Within these categories, Cambi has cultivated niche specializations unique in the Italian market, including maritime art, scientific instruments, and antique frames. The Design department has grown substantially and now ranks among the most important design auction programs in Italy. Oriental Art is another notable specialty, with dedicated sales of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian material drawing an international collector base, while the Jewelry and Watches departments handle estate pieces, branded luxury, and important gemstones with regular dedicated auctions.

Selling with Cambi

Valuations are available at the Genoa, Milan, Rome, and Turin offices, by appointment, or through online submission. The specialist team provides estimates and advises on the most appropriate sale and timing. Cambi is known for the scholarly quality of its catalogues, featuring detailed provenance research, condition analysis, and art-historical commentary that enhances buyer confidence and can contribute to stronger results at auction. Commission rates are discussed at the time of consignment. The firm also provides ancillary services including insurance and probate valuations, collection consulting, and estate management, offering a complete service from initial assessment to final settlement.

Buying and bidding

Buyers can participate in Cambi's sales in person at Genoa or Milan, by telephone, by absentee bid, or through the firm's online bidding platform. A buyer's premium is applied to all lots, with the current rate published in the conditions of sale, and international shipping can be coordinated through the firm.

The Castello Mackenzie setting

The castle, built in the late nineteenth century in a dramatic Gothic Revival style, offers a viewing and auction experience unlike a conventional saleroom. Its grand reception rooms provide a magnificent backdrop for the display of fine art and antiques, and for collectors visiting Genoa, a Cambi auction is a cultural experience as well as a commercial one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cambi's main saleroom?

Cambi's main headquarters and saleroom are at Castello Mackenzie in Genoa, complemented by offices and salerooms in Milan and additional offices in Rome and Turin.

What are Cambi's niche specializations?

Cambi has cultivated niche specializations unique in the Italian market, including maritime art, scientific instruments, and antique frames.

When was Cambi founded?

Cambi was founded in 1998, tracing its origins to a Genovese family business that had operated in the historic center of Genoa since the 1970s.