Antiques and Art Dealers

Employers

Many antiques and art dealers are self-employed, operating their own shops or renting space at a local mall. Others operate solely through traveling art shows or through mail-order catalogues. Some dealers prefer to work as employees of larger antique or art galleries. In general, the more well known the dealer, the more permanent and steady the business. Prestigious auction houses such as Christie's or Sotheby's are attractive places to work, but competition for such jobs is fierce.

Starting Out

All dealers have a great interest in antiques or art and are collectors themselves. Often, their businesses result from an overabundance of their personal collections. There are many ways to build a collection and create inventory worthy of an antique business. Attending yard sales is an inexpensive way to build inventory; you never know what kind of valuables you will come across. Flea markets, local art galleries, and antique malls provide great purchasing opportunities and give the chance to check out the competition. Spring can be a busy time for collecting. As people do their "spring cleaning," many decide to part with household items and décor they no longer want or need.