Today’s Auction House Scene

[edhans]

Well stated, John. Here's to the continued success of the "little" auction houses like Lee's, Al's, and Leon and Scott's.

[calvindog]

The only thing that can stop these fraudsters is indictments. A guy like Josh Evans who knows full well what has gone on with Mastro et al about to go to jail cannot be dissuaded from committing fraud in his own auction.

[Exhibitman]

That was a very nice piece John.

I think the focus has to be on consignors. If the crooked AHs don't get the items we won't be tempted to bid with them. I am selling off a lot over the next few years (college approaches) and I am sending things only to auctioneers I respect: Sterling, LOTG, B&L and I would not hesitate to deal with Hakes or Heritage either. I have started ebay consignments as well with davidbvintage. I might not make as much with an honest AH in the short term as with a crook but at least I can sleep at night.