An interview with Tom Schwenke, decorative arts specialist, of Woodbury Auctions by Amory Armstrong

Tom's next Auction is on Sunday, February 26th.

How would you define Woodbury Auction LLC?

Woodbury Auction LLC is a natural extension of the business of Thomas Schwenke, Inc., a fine antique furniture dealership started by Thomas Schwenke in 1970. The business was developed in recognition of the fact our economy both within the decorative arts field and generally is trending more and moving towards a "do it yourself" methodology. Our first live auction was held in May of 2009, and we have had fourteen auctions to date. Woodbury Auction focuses on the sale of fine arts, antiques and collectibles. By industry standards, we would be classified as a small, regional auction house. We endeavor to provide superior customer service for our consignors and buyers, and we enjoy a large network of dealers, appraisers and other arts professionals who assist in both property referrals and property identification and valuation. Our sales are live auctions with printed, illustrated catalogs, and most of our auctions are published for live bidding on the internet through Live Auctioneers. Each lot has several images, clear and concise descriptions and dimensions, and an estimate range reflecting our opinion of a reasonable expected auction selling price. Each auction is preceded by at least three days of preview, at which time prospective buyers can examine the auction property to determine their level of interest. We are located in Woodbury, Connecticut on the "Connecticut Antiques Trail".

How many auctions do you have a year?

We average four major cataloged auctions each year, with smaller non-internet auctions scheduled as needs require. We do on-site auctions and estate sales as well as in-house auctions. The content of each auction depends, of course, on the material consigned, but generally our auctions offer antique furniture and decorations, designer furniture and decorations, fine and decorative art, jewelry, porcelain, silver, toys, sporting items and oriental rugs. Our December 3rd Holiday Sale, for example, featured over 300 lots of fine jewelry and English sterling silver, with assorted decorative arts. We typically schedule one auction in the spring which features fine American antiques.

Who are your clients?

Our clients are collectors, dealers, museums and just about anyone and everyone who is interested in the decorative arts. We assist our purchasers by offering condition reports for requested items, and working with them to establish guidelines of interest and value. Buying at auction is essentially a wholesale platform, so there are definitely opportunities to purchase at advantageous prices – but all sales are final so the preview time is quite important for our buyers. During the preview a physical examination can be performed, with or without the assistance of our staff, and there is ample opportunity to discuss the items with one of our experts.

If a perspective buyer cannot attend the preview, can the client make an appointment to view at another mutually agreed time?

At Woodbury Auction LLC we strive to offer the highest level of client service to insure that our clients are accommodated throughout the auctions process. Appointments can be made once the preview is set up as it is difficult to do before as the pieces are not marked and ready for viewing. Our catalogue platform generally includes 3 photos of each auction item. During the 4 days of preview, upon request from a registered client, we will offer any additional photos and information the perspective buyer needs. Do to the nature of the auction process, we do however encourage physical inspection as pieces are sold as is and once the purchase is made the buyer takes ownership.

Can you explain the process once a lot has been purchased through Woodbury Auction LLC?

Purchasing at Woodbury Auction LLC is really as easy as purchasing through a retail venue. For all buyers, whether they attend the auction, leave a successful absentee of internet bid, payment is due in full 10 days from the date of the auction. A client can make cash payment or we also take check, credit cards and wire transfers. We offer discounted payment if it is made in full on the day of the auction. Delivery and shipping of purchases is the responsibility of the buyer. Our client services staff can work with the buyer to set up our in house delivery service or can also provide the buyer with a list of shippers. Understanding that pieces are sold as is, we at Woodbury Auction LLC also offer complete in house restoration services at the cost of the client.

Woodbury Auction will hold its next auction on Sunday, February 26th at 12 noon.

Preview Dates: Thursday, February 23 from noon to 5pm, Friday, February 24 from 10am to 7pm, Saturday, February 25 from 10am to 5pm, Sunday, February 26 from 8am to noon.

 This auction features American, English, Continental and decorative furniture, fine art, silver, porcelain, jewelry, decorative arts, folk art and oriental rugs from estates and consignors in California, Illinois, Florida, New York and Connecticut.

For more information visit http://www.woodburyauction.com/