| Sotheby's is an auctioneers of authenticated fine and decorative art, jewelry and collectibles. Sotheby's operations are organized under three segments: Auction, Finance and Dealer. Sotheby's Auction segment functions principally as an agent by offering authenticated works of art for sale at auction and by brokering private sales of artwork. Sotheby's also operates as a dealer in works of art through its Dealer segment, conducts art-related financing activities through its Finance segment and is engaged, to a lesser extent, in brand licensing activities. Sotheby's Finance segment provides certain collectors and art dealers with financing, secured by works of art it either has in its possession or permits borrowers to possess. The activities of Sotheby's Dealer segment principally include the activities of Noortman Master Paintings (NMP). |
