What is pre-emption?
Important for bidders in Paris sales: In certain cases, the French State is entitled to use its right of pre-emption on works of art or private documents. This means that the state substitutes itself for the last bidder and becomes the buyer. In such a case, a representative of the French State announces the exercise of the pre-emption right during the auction and immediately after the lot has been sold, and this declaration will be recorded in the official sale record. The French State will have then fifteen (15) days to confirm the pre-emption decision. Christie’s will not be held responsible for any administrative decisions of the French State regarding the use of its right of pre-emption. Important for bidders in Madrid sales: Prior to the sale Christie’s will communicate to the Autonomous Community of Madrid and to the Ministry of Culture the content of this sale, in order for them if so wished for, to use their right of pre-emption granted by law. In certain cases, the Spanish St
