The world of art auctions is one of glamour and prestige, uniting people through a shared passion for art, and iconic paintings by old masters regularly make headlines for achieving record-breaking prices at spectacular events in global art hubs.

These masterpieces pass into the hands of new owners, continuing their rich histories. But behind the scenes, there’s more than just spectacle – there’s sentiment, complex negotiations, and sometimes restitution, particularly for works wrongfully acquired through the tragedies of war.

At the heart of these transactions are the auction houses, where art and luxury lovers gather.

Sotheby’s, founded in the mid-18th century, is the oldest and largest internationally recognized fine art and luxury auction house. With such a rich history, institutions like Sotheby’s have a la ...