Artcurial opens in Germany; further international expansion planned
Moritz von der Heydte © Artcurial
Major French auction house Artcurial will pick up the pace of its development in Europe during the second half of 2015. As part of this process, it will start working with a permanent representative in Germany: Moritz von der Heydte. An art market specialist who has previously held roles with Sotheby’s Longon and antique dealer Röbbig, von der Heydte will cover all 16 Länders from his base in Munich.
Martin Guesnet, director of Artcurial in charge of its European development, will oversee the activity of this new office.
Francis Briest and François Tajan, co-chairmen of Artcurial, said: “This is the first time that a French auction house will open its doors across the Rhine. Our arrival in Germany, a country of art collectors and enthusiasts, is a key stage in our international development. The considerable groundwork already performed by our offices in Brussels, Milan and Vienna is helping to drive the upward trend in our market share in Europe. It is notably thanks to this European network that Artcurial reaches new clients.”
Moritz von der Heydte added: “I am delighted to join Artcurial where I will be able to defend the colours of this outstanding auction house in Germany. I am certain that, with its specific features, Artcurial has the potential to enjoy rapid success in this country. It offers a credible and appealing alternative, underpinned by renowned French expertise on the auction market. This represents an exciting challenge.”
Since 2012, Artcurial has been engaged in an international development strategy marked by the opening of offices in Belgium (Brussels), Italy (Milan) and in 2014 in Austria (Vienna). These city centre exhibition venues are aimed at consolidating existing links with the local clientele while also raising Artcurial’s profile among new clients.
The new Munich office will host events related to the auction house’s latest developments: signing sessions, art exhibitions and travelling exhibitions of flagship pieces from future Parisian auctions.
Further details on the location and the schedule will be unveiled during the second half of 2015.