Chiswick Auctions

About Chiswick Auctions

Chiswick Auctions is a London-based auction house that has carved out a distinctive niche in the British art market by combining accessibility with genuine specialist expertise, particularly in Asian Art and Islamic and Indian Art. Operating from premises in West London, Chiswick Auctions has grown into one of the capital's most active and respected independent auction houses, conducting over 170 sales per year across 18 specialist departments.

The house's approach is deliberately different from the exclusivity that characterizes the Mayfair and St James's auction establishment. Chiswick Auctions positions itself as dynamic and approachable, welcoming both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. This openness has not come at the expense of specialist depth, however — the firm has built departments that rival those of much larger houses in their knowledge and market influence.

Asian and Islamic art

The Asian Art department is a particular standout. Specializing in Chinese ceramics, Japanese lacquer and prints, Tibetan bronzes, Southeast Asian sculpture and other categories, the department holds its major sales to coincide with Asian Art Week in London, the biannual event that draws specialist dealers and collectors from around the world. This strategic timing maximizes exposure and competitive bidding, connecting consignors with an international audience of institutions and private buyers, and the department has developed a strong reputation for identifying and researching overlooked or undervalued pieces, leading to some impressive results at auction.

The Islamic and Indian Art department is another major strength, covering Mughal, Rajput and Sikh miniature paintings, Buddhist, Jain and Hindu sculptures, fine jewelry, jade, metalwork, textiles and ceramics from the Islamic world. This department also holds its principal sales during London's specialist art weeks in spring and autumn, and has attracted consignments from important European private collections, earning the respect of leading dealers and curators in the field.

Other specialist departments

Beyond these headline departments, Chiswick Auctions maintains active programs in:

• Fine Art and Old Masters
• Modern and Contemporary Art
• Prints
• Jewelry and Watches
• Silver
• Furniture and Interiors
• Wine
• Militaria
• Vintage Fashion
• General Antiques

Each specialist department typically holds around four dedicated sales per year, supplemented by regular mixed-category auctions that keep the business flowing and provide an entry point for sellers with diverse property.

Selling with Chiswick Auctions

For sellers, the consignment process is designed to be straightforward. Valuations can be arranged by visiting the saleroom, submitting images online, or scheduling a home visit for larger collections, and Chiswick Auctions' specialists provide estimates and advise on the best sale format and timing. The firm handles photography, cataloguing, condition reporting and marketing, including placement in printed catalogues and on online platforms, with commission rates competitive and discussed at the time of consignment. The firm's location in Chiswick, West London, offers practical advantages: while it lacks the prestige address of a Bond Street or King Street saleroom, lower overheads translate into competitive commission rates for sellers, and the premises provide ample space for viewing and storage.

Buying and bidding

Buyers can bid in person, by telephone, by absentee bid, or through the firm's online bidding system, which supports real-time participation during live sales; Chiswick Auctions also partners with major online auction platforms to extend the reach of each sale. A buyer's premium is applied to all purchases, published in the conditions of sale. Viewing days are open to the public, and the specialist staff are approachable and willing to discuss lots in detail. The firm publishes comprehensive online catalogues with detailed descriptions, provenance information and high-resolution images, and condition reports are available on request, with pre-sale estimates provided for all lots.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sales does Chiswick Auctions hold each year?

Chiswick Auctions conducts over 170 sales per year across 18 specialist departments.

What is Chiswick Auctions known for?

It is particularly known for its Asian Art and Islamic and Indian Art departments, holding major sales during London's Asian Art Week and its spring and autumn specialist art weeks.

How can I sell with Chiswick Auctions?

Sellers can arrange a valuation at the saleroom, by submitting images online, or through a home visit for larger collections, with commission rates discussed at the time of consignment.