Online-Only Auction Instructions
Artsy's online-only auctions make it easy to participate from anywhere. Browse available lots, register for the auction, and place your bids online before bidding closes.
Before You Bid
Review the artwork details carefully before placing a bid, including the description, condition information, dimensions, and any applicable fees or shipping information.
Please keep in mind that all bids are binding. Be sure you are comfortable with your bid amount and any additional costs before submitting your bid.
Register to Bid
Before placing your first bid, you’ll need to register for the auction through Artsy.
Sign in to your Artsy account or create an account.
Open the auction or the lot you’re interested in.
Select Register or Bid.
Follow the prompts to complete your registration and agree to the auction terms.
We recommend registering early so you’re ready to bid when you find a work you love.
Place Your Bid
Once registered, you can place a bid at any time while the lot is open.
You can bid in two ways:
Place the next available bid
Submit the next bidding increment shown on the lot page. If another bidder places a higher bid, you can return and bid again.
Place a maximum bid
Enter the highest amount you’re willing to pay. Artsy will automatically bid on your behalf as needed, up to—but never above—your maximum amount.
Your maximum bid remains confidential, and the system will only increase your bid when necessary to keep you in the lead.
Keep an Eye on Your Lots
Bidding often becomes most active as a lot approaches its closing time. We recommend monitoring the lots you’re interested in, particularly during their final minutes.
Make sure your contact information is up to date in your Artsy profile so you can receive notifications if you’re outbid.
When Does Bidding Close?
Each lot has its own closing time, displayed as a countdown on the lot page. Lots are scheduled to close at intervals rather than all at once.
If a bid is submitted during the final two minutes, the closing time for that lot will be extended by two minutes. This gives other bidders an opportunity to respond and helps prevent a bidder from winning simply by placing a bid at the last second.
Continue watching the countdown until the lot officially closes.
If You Win
After the auction closes, you’ll receive notification of the bidding outcome.
Winning bidders will receive additional information about payment and next steps. Applicable charges may include the winning bid amount, buyer’s premium, taxes, shipping, and other fees identified in the auction terms.
Helpful Bidding Tips
- Register early. Don’t wait until the final minutes to complete your registration.
- Review the lot carefully. Check condition information and other important details before bidding.
- Know your total costs. Your winning bid may not include buyer’s premium, taxes, shipping, or other applicable charges.
- Consider a maximum bid. Artsy can automatically bid for you up to the amount you choose.
- Watch the countdown. Each lot closes individually, and late bidding may extend its closing time.
- Remember that bids are binding. Only bid when you’re prepared to complete the purchase if you win.
Ready to Bid?
Browse the auction, register through Artsy, and place your bids before your favorite lots close.
