Guide for Buyers | Glossary & Important Notices
Updated on Tue, 09 Apr, 2024 at 05:10 AM
1. GLOSSARY OF TERMS
a. PAINTINGS
(i) The following are examples of the terminology used in Sotheby’s catalogues. Any statement as to authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, provenance and condition is a statement of opinion and is not to be taken as a statement of fact. Please read carefully the terms of the Conditions of Business for Buyers, in particular Condition 3 (“The Lots”) and Condition 15 (“Authenticity Guarantee”).
GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a work by the artist. When the artist’s forename(s) is not known, a series of asterisks, followed by the surname of the artist, whether preceded by an initial or not, indicates that in our opinion the work is by the artist named.
The same meaning applies to the use of the term "by" or "of" followed by the designation of the author.
ATTRIBUTED TO GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion probably a work that was created at a time when the artist mentioned was active and there are serious grounds to believe that it is by the artist’s hand, but less certainty as to authorship is expressed than in the preceding category.
STUDIO OF GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a work by an unknown hand in the studio of the artist which may or may not have been executed under the artist’s direction.
CIRCLE OF GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a work by an artist as yet unidentified but distinct hand, closely associated with the named artist but not necessarily his pupil.
FOLLOWER OF GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a work by an artist, working in the style of the artist, contemporary or close to his time but not inevitably his pupil.
STYLE OF OR MANNER OF GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a work in the style of the artist and of a later date.
AFTER GIOVANNI BELLINI
In our opinion a copy of a known work of the artist.
ITALIAN, 15TH CENTURY
In our opinion a work from that region and of that date.
PROBABLY ITALIAN, 15TH CENTURY
In our opinion a work that is likely to be from that region and/or of that date but less certainty as to the region and/or date is expressed than in the preceding category.
IN RENAISSANCE STYLE
In our opinion a work executed in the style of the Renaissance but not necessarily of that period.
(ii) The term signed and/or dated and/or inscribed means that in our opinion the signature and/or date and/or inscription are from the hand of the artist.
(iii) The term bears a signature and/or date and/or inscription means that in our opinion the signature and/or date and/or inscription have been added by another hand.
(iv) Dimensions are given height before width.
b. PHOTOGRAPHS
Titles
Generally accepted titles for photographs have been put in quotation marks; in other cases, descriptive titles have been used.
Prints
An early print is one made at roughly the same time as the negative by the photographer himself or by a person or procedure satisfactory to the photographer. Specific dates of positive prints are rarely known. The distinction between an early print and a print done considerably later would be expressed as follows, with the date referring to the production of the negative: 1901 (for an early print); 1901, printed later (for a later print) The approximate date, year, or decade of a positive print is given when possible, based on Sotheby’s knowledge of the history of the photograph, its provenance, and our visual assessment of the photograph’s physical characteristics. However, in accordance with the Conditions of Sale, Sotheby’s does not guarantee the printing date of a photograph. Sotheby’s also does not undertake scientific testing in order to formulate our opinions on the dating of a positive print. Measurements are given height preceding width rounded to the nearest eighth of an inch, and unless otherwise indicated, refer to the images only.
Framing
Photographs described as framed are sold in the frames in which they have been offered. Sotheby’s does not take responsibility for the appearance of the frames or for their conformity to proper standards of conservation.
c. SCULPTURE
Bronze Figure of a Woman, Maurice Giraud-Rivière, circa 1925 This heading indicates that the casting was done by the artist or with his direct authorization or supervision.
Bronze Figure of a Woman, After Maurice Giraud-Rivière, circa 1925 This heading indicates the casting was done by another, i.e., artisans at a foundry. Maurice Giraud-Rivière, Bronze Figure of a Woman, circa 1925 This heading indicates that the casting was done by the artist or with his direct authorization or supervision.
d. FURNITURE AND DECORATIONS
Louis XV Ormolu-Mounted Marquetry Commode, mid-18th century
This heading, with date included, means that the piece is, in our opinion, of the period indicated with no major alterations or restorations.
Louis XV Ormolu-Mounted Marquetry commode
This heading, without inclusion of the date, indicates that, in our opinion, the piece, while basically of the period, has undergone significant restoration or alteration.
Louis XV Style Ormolu-Mounted Marquetry Commode
The inclusion of the word “style” in the heading indicates that, in our opinion, the piece was made as an intentional reproduction of an earlier style.
(i) The term signed and/or dated and/or inscribed means that in our opinion the signature and/or date and/or inscription are from the hand of the artist.
(ii) The term bears a signature and/or date and/or inscription means that in our opinion the signature and/or date and/or inscription have been added by another hand.
(iii) Dimensions are given height before width.
(iv) Pictures are framed unless otherwise stated.
e. CERAMICS
Meissen Cup and Saucer, circa 1735, This states that the cup and saucer were made at the Meissen factory around the year 1735.
Meissen Cup and a Saucer, circa 1735, Again, this states that the cup and saucer were made at the Meissen factory around 1735, but it also indicates that the cup and saucer may not have been “born” together.
Meissen Cup and Saucer, 1730-50 This states that the cup and saucer were made at the Meissen factory some time between 1730 and 1750.
Meissen Cup and Saucer, dated 1735
This states that the cup and saucer were made at the Meissen factory, and that the date 1735 appears within the decoration, although it may not be the actual year of manufacture. Only in the case of factories such as Sevres, Frankenthal and Vienna, which incorporated date letters or numbers into their marks, does the term “Dated” mean the actual year of manufacture.
‘Meissen’ Cup and Saucer, 19th century This states that the cup and saucer are of Meissen type, and although of the date specified, not necessarily made at the Meissen factory.
Meissen Cup and Saucer. This title without a date simply states that the pieces were made at the Meissen factory, but does not specify when, implying that their age is questionable.
f. CARPETS
A Tekke Rug, West Turkestan FIRST QUARTER 20TH CENTURY This attribution and ascribed date indicate that, in our opinion, the carpet is an early 20th Century Turkmen rug with no major alteration or restoration. Please note that while every effort is made to maintain accuracy and consistency in terms of date, the dating of carpets is necessarily inexact, and often a matter of opinion.
A Daghestan Rug, Northeast Caucasus, CIRCA 1875 reduced in length, rewoven areas. This attribution and ascribed date indicate that, in our opinion, the carpet was woven in the Caucasian district of Daghestan around 1875. It also indicates that the carpet has been altered in length and has major reweaves. The notation of condition in catalogue descriptions is as consistent as possible. However, bidders should read the Important Notice for carpets and note that Sotheby’s liability with regard to these comments is limited by the Conditions of Sale printed in the front of the catalogue.
Technical Analysis
The technical analyses appearing after descriptions of tribal, village and nomadic pile carpets are provided exclusively as a service for those interested in the structure of pile weavings. Please note that all such technical analyses are qualified statements and are made subject to the Conditions of Sale and Terms of Guarantee printed in the catalogue. The following abbreviations are employed:
H- Horizontal
V - Vertical
S - Clockwise direction of spin
Z - Counter-clockwise direction of spin
Z2S - The spin of the individual strands is clockwise, 2 of these strands are then plied together counter-clockwise to form the yarn. For a thorough description of this method of structural analysis, please refer to David Black, ed., World Rugs and Carpets, London, Robert Adkinson, 1985, pp. 20-21, and Irene Emery, The Primary Structure of Fabrics, New York, The Spiral Press, 1966.
Yarns are spun and plied in either an ‘S’ or a ‘Z’ direction
g. CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART
The following are examples of the terminology used in this catalogue. Please note that all statements
are made subject to the provisions of the Conditions of Business and Authenticity Guarantee.
(i) When an item is in our opinion of a certain period, reign or dynasty, this attribution appears in bold
directly below the heading of the catalogue entry for such item.
e.g. A blue and white dish from the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty is catalogued as follows:
A Blue and White Dish, Ming Dynasty, Jiajing period
(ii) If there is no attribution in bold under the catalogue entry for an item, it means that we are unable
to determine the period attributable to such item.
(iii) Where attribution is given in the heading for a lot and there is more than one item in the lot, it is our
opinion that all the items in the lot belong to the same period unless specifically stated otherwise.
(iv) Where no attribution is given to an item, it is our opinion that the period of origin of such item is
unclear or that it is from the 19th or 20th century.
(v) With respect to Asian hardwoods, the terms ‘Huanghuali’, ‘Huali’ ‘Hongmu’ ‘Zitan’ and others appearing within single quotation marks, in bold or in capital letters in the heading are descriptive identifications based on appearance, and are not intended to denote a specific scientific species.
Pottery Figure of a Horse, Tang Dynasty
This heading, with date or period included, means that the piece is, in our opinion, of the date or period indicated with no major alterations or replacements unless otherwise in dictated in the cataloguing. With respect to ceramics and sculpture, if, in our opinion, the piece was made at a specific kiln or location, the name of the kiln or location will appear in bold or capital letters, i.e., DING OVOID VASE, SONG DYNASTY. However, if the heading appears as follows, ‘DING’ OVOID VASE, SONG DYNASTY, this indicates that, in our opinion, the piece is of the Ding type or location, and although of the date specified, not necessarily made at the Ding kiln or location.
Pottery Figure of a Horse, Tang Style
This inclusion of the word “style” indicates that, in our opinion, either the piece (i) while basically of the period indicated, has undergone significant restoration or alteration, or (ii) was made as an intentional reproduction of an earlier style. Where a ceramic or work of art bears a signature or seal of an artist or studio, if the heading appears as follows:
By Ma Shaoxuan. This work is, in our best judgment, by the named artist.
Attributed to Ma Shaoxuan. In our opinion, probably a work by the artist but less certainty as to authorship is expressed than in the preceding category.
Signed Ma Shaoxuan. The piece bears the signature or seal of the artist or studio but with no firm attribution as to the hand.
h. CHINESE FURNITURE
With respect to Asian hardwoods, 22 terms ‘Huanghuali’, ‘Huali’ ‘Hongmu’ ‘Zitan’ and others appearing within single quotes in bold or capital letters in the heading are descriptive identifications based on appearance and are not intended to denote a specific species. Notwithstanding the above, if within five years of the sale of any lot, the buyer gives written notice to Sotheby’s that the lot sold is a forgery and if within three months after giving such notice, the buyer returns the lot in the same Condition as it was at the time of sale to the premises of Sotheby’s and demonstrates to the satisfaction of Sotheby’s that the lot sold is a forgery, Sotheby’s is authorized to and will rescind the sale and refund the purchase price received by it. For this purpose, a ‘forgery’ is defined as a work created with intent to deceive.
i. JEWELLERY
As a convenience to our clients, we include the following glossary which includes definitions of certain terms used in the description of lots of Jewellery sales in our catalogues. Please read carefully the terms of the Authenticity Guarantee set out in Condition 15.
NAME OF JEWELLER
When we state the name of a maker in the catalogue description, we mean that, in Sotheby’s qualified opinion, although even if unsigned, the piece is by the named jeweller.
MOUNTED BY
When we state in the catalogue description “Mounted by ______”, we mean that, in Sotheby’s qualified opinion, the gemstone(s) was/were provided by the client commissioning the jewel and not supplied by the jeweller.
STONE WEIGHTS
Weights of stones printed in the catalogue and preceded by the words ‘‘stated to be,’’ ‘‘about’’ or ‘‘approximately’’ are not guaranteed by Sotheby’s. Prospective buyers are reminded that all lots are sold as shown.
DIAMOND CLARITY
Clarity grading follows a hierarchy describing the extent of the impurities in a diamond. All clarity grading is carried out under a 10x magnification. The more impurities in a diamond the lower the price per carat.
IF (INTERNALLY FLAWLESS)
No inclusions and only insignificant blemishes.
VVS1 AND VVS2 (VERY VERY SLIGHT INCLUSION)
Extremely difficult to see, visible only from the back of the stone, or small and shallow enough to be removed easily by repolishing.
VS1 AND VS2 (MINOR INCLUSIONS)
Still difficult to see with the untrained eye.
SI1 and SI2 (NOTICEABLE INCLUSIONS)
Easy (SI1) or very easy (SI2) to see with a 10x lens. When these have been located with a 10x lens, look at the stone with the naked eye and the inclusions can sometimes be spotted.
I1, I2, I3 (OBVIOUS INCLUSIONS)
May be eye-visible face-up without the aid of a lens. In I3, they may threaten the stone’s durability.
RING SIZES
Metric French/Japanese English USA
37.8252 — A ½
38.4237 — A½ ¾
39.0222 — B 1
39.6207 — B½ 1¼
40.2192 — C 1½
40.8177 — C½ 1¾
41.4162 1 D 2º
42.0147 2 D½ 2¼
42.6132 — E 2½
43.2117 3 E½ 2¾
43.8102 4 F 3
44.4087 — F½ 3¼
45.0072 5 G 3½
45.6057 — G½ 3¾
46.2042 6 H 4
46.8027 — H½ 4¼
47.4012 7 I 4½
47.9997 8 I½ 4¾
48.5982 — J 5
49.1967 9 J½ 5¼
49.7952 10 K 5½
50.3937 — K½ 5¾
50.9922 11 L 6
51.5907 — L½ 6¼
52.1892 12 M 6½
52.7877 13 M½ 6¾
53.4660 — N 7
54.1044 14 N½ 7¼
54.7428 15 O 7½
55.3812 — O½ 7¾
56.0196 16 P 8
56.6580 — P½ 8¼
57.2964 17 Q 8½
57.9348 18 Q½ 8¾
58.5732 — R 9
59.2116 19 R½ 9¼
59.8500 20 S 9½
60.4884 — S½ 9¾
61.1268 21 T 10
61.7652 22 T½ 10¼
62.4026 — U 10½
63.0420 23 U½ 10¾
63.6804 24 V 11
64.3188 — V½ 11¼
64.8774 25 W 11½
65.4759 — W½ 11¾
66.0744 26 X 12
66.6729 — X½ 12¼
67.2714 — Y 12½
67.8699 — Y½ 12¾
68.4684 — Z 13
COLOUR GRADING
Colour grading follows a scale describing the “colourless” or absence of secondary colour in a colourless or near-colourless diamond. At the top of the scale a diamond will appear colourless, and at the bottom yellowish or brownish.
GIA - D, E F
The top colour grades, D, E, F, describe a diamond which appears colourless against a white background.
GIA - G, H, I
In near colourless diamonds, G, H, I, there is a slight trace of colour which will not be apparent to the untrained eye. Stones 0.50ct or less will look colourless.
GIa - J, K, L
Diamonds graded J, K, L, will have noteable traces of colour. Small stones in this range will ‘face up’ colourless when mounted but larger stones will be tinted.
GIA - M - Z
Diamonds graded M-Z will display a yellowish tint even to the untrained eye.
FANCY COLOURS
GIA Z+
Z+ colour grade indicates that the diamond is of fancy colour and therefore fall into a different price bracket.
2. IMPORTANT NOTICES
a. ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL GOODS
All electrical and mechanical goods are sold on the basis of their artistic and decorative value only, and should not be assumed to be operative and/or functional. It is essential that prior to any intended use, the electrical system is checked and approved by a qualified electrician.
b. GEMSTONES
Traditionally, gemstones have been treated by a variety of techniques to enhance colour and generally to improve their appearance. Typically, rubies and sapphires have been heat treated and emeralds have been treated by oil or resin to improve colour and clarity. These or other techniques, such as dyeing, irradiation, coating and impregnation, may be used on other gemstones. Although it is widely believed that heat treatments are permanent, purchasers should assume that any treatment may not be permanent and that over time special care of the stone may be required. Prospective buyers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
To the extent that Sotheby’s has laboratory reports containing specific information on the treatment of a stone, these reports are made available for review by prospective buyers. Available reports from internationally recognized gemological laboratories will be noted in the description of the item. New forms of treatments and new scientific methods to discern them are constantly being developed. Consequently, there may be a lack of consensus among laboratories as to whether gemstones have been treated, the extent of the treatment or the permanence of the treatment. References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby’s does not guarantee nor accept responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.
Regarding diamonds, Sotheby’s shares the concerns expressed by the United Nations Security Council with respect to uncut diamonds potentially coming from Angola and Sierra Leone. We will comply fully with the Security Council’s resolutions regarding these matters.
Regarding Jewelry
Statements in the catalogue regarding the condition of lots in this sale usually appear in the description. However, the absence of any such reference does not imply that a lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear or imperfections. Sotheby’s will be pleased to offer condition reports of the lots to potential purchasers. Please call the jewelry representatives as set forth in the front of the catalogue. Any gemological terms used in the catalogue have the same meanings as set forth in the Federal Trade Commission’s guides for the jewelry, precious metals and pewter industries. A copy of these guidelines is available from Sotheby’s upon request.
Regarding Diamonds
Sotheby’s shares the concerns expressed by the United Nations Security Council with respect to uncut diamonds potentially coming from Angola and Sierra Leone. We will comply fully with any obligations imposed in connection with the Security Council’s resolutions regarding these matters.
Gemological Certificates and Reports
References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby’s does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.
Certificates of Authenticity
Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Except as specifically noted in the catalogue, Sotheby’s will not be required to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale.
Country of Origin
While Sotheby’s attempts to obtain accurate information on the country of origin of the gemstones, in accordance with paragraph 1 of the Conditions of Sale, Sotheby’s does not guarantee the correctness of the catalogue or other description of the gemstones including the country of origin.
Stone Weights
Weights of stones printed in the catalogue and preceded by the words “stated to be,” “about” or “approximately” are not guaranteed by Sotheby’s. Prospective buyers are reminded that all lots are sold as shown.
c. WATCHES
All watches, wristwatches and pocket watches are sold on the basis of their decorative and historic value and should not be assumed to be operative. They are sold as viewed and cannot be returned on the grounds that repairs have been carried out or parts supplied by anyone other than the named makers. Clients are advised that they should arrange for a qualified watchmaker to inspect all potential watch purchases prior to the auction or a Sotheby’s Watches expert may be contacted with a view to arranging an inspection.
Watches may not be taken apart whilst on view. Prospective buyers or their agents wishing to do so should make an appointment with the Watch Department for a private view the week before the sale. Although condition reports may be given on request, such reports are statements of opinion only and may not specify all mechanical replacements or imperfections in the movement, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome or any other replacements or additions to the lot. All dimensions are approximate.
Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant.
Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. In addition, certain manufacturers will not service or repair pieces if all the component parts are not original to the piece. The refusal of a manufacturer to service or repair a piece on this basis does not constitute grounds to rescind the sale under the Authenticity Guarantee.
Please be advised that straps made of material derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these straps prior to shipping. Furthermore, in reference to watch bands, we do not guarantee the material of manufacture. Please be advised that the buyer will be responsible for complying with any applicable export and import matters, particularly in relation to endangered species and the United States Department of Fish and Wildlife Services.
We make no representation or warranty as to the condition of any lot sold.
d. UPHOLSTERY
Sotheby’s is not responsible for any tears, stains, marks, other damage or loss of any interior and/or exterior upholstery and upholstery materials, including, but not limited to, the exterior fabric and interior padding, webbing and springs.
e. WINE
Please refer to the relevant Wine & Spirits Auction details page on Sotheby’s website for information about ullages and bottle sizes.
Wines offered Duty Paid
Except where otherwise stated, all lots are offered duty paid and bidding is at duty paid prices.
Buyers are also informed that excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages have been duly paid on all lots offered for sale, as well as social security contributions due on certain categories of alcoholic beverages.
Cataloguing of old Wines and Spirits
Wines and spirits are catalogued as accurately as possible at the time of going to press including the levels. However, such levels may change between cataloguing and sales. This may be caused by the ageing of the cork or by a change in the temperature of the storage conditions or the shipment of the Wines and Spirits. Additionally, there is a risk of cork failure in old wines and spirits which must be taken into account by the potential purchasers. Purchasers must take into consideration the natural variations and conditions of cases, labels, ullages, corks and wines or spirits. Except as set out in Sotheby’s Authenticity Guarantee or otherwise permitted under the applicable law and that cannot be excluded or limited by this Guide or the Conditions of Business for Buyers, Sotheby’s is unable to accept returns.
Cautionary Notes
Sotheby’s will not entertain any price negotiation or credit after the delivery is made and returns will not be accepted. Under no circumstances will substitutes be provided by Sotheby’s; for example in case of breakage.
f. OTHER IMPORTANT NOTICES
Burmese Jadeite
Jadeite of Burmese origin less than 100 years old may not be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin will be required before importing lots containing jadeite into the US. It is the buyer’s responsibility to obtain any export or import licenses and/or certificates as well as any other required documentation before shipping. The inability of import of any such items shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale contract or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
Endangered Species
Property containing certain endangered species will require a CITES license upon export from the U.S. and may require an additional license upon import into another country. There is no guarantee that such licenses will be granted. In the case of denial of any license or of delay in obtaining such licenses, the purchaser remains responsible for making on-time payment for the total purchase price.
Was this article helpful?
That’s Great!
Thank you for your feedback
Sorry! We couldn't be helpful
Thank you for your feedback
Feedback sent
We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article
1 out of 1 found this helpful.