Antiques and Art Dealers

High School

You can become an antiques or art dealer with a high school diploma, though many successful dealers have become specialists in their field partly through further education. While in high school, concentrate on history and art classes to familiarize yourself with the particular significance and details of different periods in time and the corresponding art of the period. Consider studying home economics if you plan to specialize in household items. This knowledge can come in handy when distinguishing a wooden rolling pin from a wooden butter paddle, for example.

English and speech classes to improve communication skills are also helpful. Antiques and art dealing is a people-oriented business. For this reason, it's crucial to be able to deal efficiently with different types of people and situations. Operating your own small business will also require skills such as accounting, simple bookkeeping, and marketing, so business classes are recommended.

Postsecondary Training

While a college education is not required, a degree in fine arts, art history, or history will give you a working knowledge of the antiques you sell and the historical periods from which they originated. Another option is obtaining a degree in business or entrepreneurship. Such knowledge will help you to run a successful business.

Other Education or Training

The International Society of Appraisers offers in-person and online training courses to help antiques and art dealers improve their knowledge and skills. Courses cover topics such as ethical and competent appraisal performance, appraisal methodology, and specialty studies that expand the appraising skillset. Specialties may include appraising antiques, furnishings, decorative arts, or fine art. More information can be found at https://www.isa-appraisers.org/courses.