Auction Houses Add a Little Sparkle: Why Sotheby’s and Christie’s Are Dressing Their Talent in Jewels

When auctioneer Phylis Kao approached the rostrum for Sotheby’s Contemporary and the Now sale last Tuesday, the last thing anyone in the room was thinking about was her outfit. The Lauder Collection segment of the evening sale had just concluded and, after a short intermission for champagne and a quick bathroom break, the room was still swimming. In just over an hour and half, Sotheby’s auctioneer Oliver Barker, sheathed in a tuxedo and black bowtie to celebrate the house’s ina