Meet The Specialist

What is your current position at Bukowskis?

I am the Head Specialist for both Fine Art and Antiques at Bukowskis in Stockholm. My role is more of a “free agent” giving support to different departments, working with both sellers and buyers to build long-lasting relationships, as well as conducting large house and estate valuations. I am also an auctioneer, and our next live auction will be the Important Winter Sale taking place between 7 - 9 December.

Where are you from? And what inspired you to go into the auction world?

I grew up in the countryside on an estate and started studying auction catalogues when I was about 8 or 9 years old. Right after finishing school I was a trainee for three months at Bukowskis and then did the Christie's Fine Arts Course in London, after which I decided that auctioneering was what I wanted to do.  

What was your first job?

Well, my first and so far only job, has been Bukowskis! After my trainee period, I continued working at Bukowskis during viewings and auctions while I completed my art history studies at Stockholm University. In 1985 I officially joined the team full-time, and have been there ever since.

Name one of your triumphs

In 1989, at the start of my career, I found what looked just like a worn leather box loitering on a shelf amongst bric-a-brac during a house valuation. When I opened it, I found the most fantastic watch. Made in Paris in 1636-46, the watch was in its original state; the case was set with rubies, and the inside was decorated in enamel with flowers and still life motifs. I can still feel my trembling excitement thinking of it. I was entrusted to do the research and handling of the sale, hammering it for SEK 2,1 million - a tremendous sum for a watch at the time. 

What has changed in the business since you started?

Having been in the business for over 40 years the better question would be what hasn't changed? One of the most significant changes I have witnessed has been the move, physically, of our buyers from the auction room to the different digital platforms. 

What is your strength as a specialist?

My broad general knowledge, which stems from my interest in almost everything, as well as years of experience combined with a rather good memory. I also have a genuine interest in people, meeting them and learning from them. 

What's exciting about your next sale?

If I must choose only one object in the upcoming Important Winter Sale it probably has to be the Boucheron diamond tiara, a consignment I have pursued for 15 years. Made in 1909, it is not only a rare piece of jewellery and a display of outstanding craftsmanship and design but also a piece of art in its own right. The provenance is also glittering, being acquired for the world-famous Swedish tenor Jussi Björling's wife Anna-Lisa, it has been worn at countless opening nights at the Metropolitan and other opera houses. 

Do you have a hidden talent?

Well, if I tell you it won’t be hidden anymore. 

Which work of art has changed your life?

When, during my time as a trainee, I saw my first painting by August Strindberg. There I was, basically only interested in the 18^th century and the encounter was like a kick in the stomach and I have been a fan ever since. This was in 1979 before his rise to fame; the painting sold for just SEK 31.100 at the time, and in 2012 we had the privilege of selling it again for SEK 7,3 million.  

Bukowskis is part of The Bonhams Network. Learn more about upcoming auctions and contact a specialist at Bukowskis.com