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FAQ For Bidders

  1. Can items in an upcoming auction be previewed?

    Yes, Showplace offers extended preview of all items coming up for sale. Preview opens twelve days before the sale. Preview hours are Monday through Friday: 9:30-6:00 and Saturday through Sunday 8:30-5:30.

  2. What is the difference between bidding online or leaving an absentee or phone bid with Showplace?

    A bidder may place their bid with us in one of three convenient ways:
    (1) register to bid live online,
    (2) by submitting a phone bid form, requesting that we contact them to take their bid over the phone, or
    (3) submit an absentee bid form with bid amounts. Phone bidders are contacted during a sale when the lots they would like to bid on are about to come up for sale, and place their bids with auction house staff. Absentee bidders need only to submit a bid form on which they will place their bid limit prior to the auction. If an absentee bidder's winning bid less than their specified bid limit, they are only obligated to pay the final increment realized live at auction (for example, if someone bids $500 on a lot and outbids the room at $350, then they only need to pay $350 for the lot).

  3. Does Showplace guarantee authenticity?

    Showplace guarantees the medium and materials of every item in our auctions. If for some reason we have mislisted an item, the buyer may obtain an opinion in writing from a recognized expert. If the expert judges the item inauthentic or otherwise misrepresented, it may be returned to Showplace in the same condition as at the time of sale, and the buyer’s full purchase price will be refunded. Showplace does not guarantee signatures.

  4. Does Showplace ship internationally?

    Yes. In order to obtain a free quote before the auction, please contact one of our preferred shippers:

    Expert Shipping Services
    quotes@ess-ny.com
    917-388-2723

    Manhattan Mailroom
    mmfirstavenue@gmail.com 
    212-249-1756

    The UPS Store
    store5865@theupsstore.com
    212-481-0055

    Fine Art Shippers
    info@fineartshippers.com
    917-658-5075

  5. Does Showplace insure shipped items?

    Yes. Every item is insured for its full value unless specified otherwise by the buyer. All shipping quotes include insurance.

  6. Can I use my own shipper/carrier?

    Yes

  7. Do you ship freight?

    Freight shipping can also be arranged through our preferred shippers above. You are also welcome to contact the freight shipper of your choice.