Antiquities Dealer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of history and culture, the role of an Antiquities Dealer has never been more significant.

As interest in preserving and collecting historical artifacts grows, so does the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can authenticate, acquire, and sell precious antiquities.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Antiquities Dealer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of antiquities and their trade,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Antiquities Dealer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Antiquities Dealer Duties and Responsibilities

Antiquities Dealers buy, sell, appraise, and restore antiques and ancient artifacts.

They require a deep knowledge of historical periods and cultures, expertise in assessing authenticity and value, and skills in restoration and preservation techniques.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating and purchasing antiques and historical artifacts from auctions, estate sales, and individual sellers
• Authenticating and appraising the age, origin, condition, and value of antiques and artifacts
• Restoring and preserving antiques, when necessary, without damaging their value
• Selling antiques and artifacts to collectors, museums, and other buyers
• Networking and building relationships with collectors, museums, and other industry professionals
• Keeping records of acquisitions, sales, and restorations
• Staying updated on the latest trends in the antiques market and historical research
• Adhering to laws and regulations regarding the sale and possession of certain types of antiques and artifacts

 

Antiquities Dealer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable Antiquities Dealer to acquire, sell and evaluate historical artifacts.

The Antiquities Dealer will be responsible for identifying valuable items, authenticating their origin and age, and finding interested buyers.

Our ideal candidate has a deep knowledge of historical periods and cultures, and a keen eye for spotting valuable antiques.

They should also have a strong network of contacts in the antiquities market.

Ultimately, the role of the Antiquities Dealer is to ensure a fair and profitable trade of historical items while preserving their cultural significance.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify, acquire and sell valuable historical artifacts
• Authenticating the origin and age of antique items
• Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of historical periods and cultures
• Establish relationships with museums, collectors and other potential buyers
• Negotiate deals on behalf of sellers and buyers
• Comply with local and international laws regarding the trade of antiquities
• Document and maintain records of all transactions and acquisitions
• Participate in auctions and trade fairs
• Work closely with historians, archaeologists and other experts

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Antiquities Dealer
• Deep knowledge of historical periods and cultures
• Excellent negotiating and sales skills
• Strong network in the antiquities market
• Ability to authenticate antiques and artifacts
• Knowledge of local and international laws regarding the trade of antiquities
• BSc degree in History, Archaeology or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Travel opportunities
• Professional development opportunities
• Retirement plan
• Health insurance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Antiquities Dealer
• Work Environment: Varied environments, including auctions, antique fairs, client homes and offices. Some travel may be required for acquisitions, meetings or trade events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Business Owner or General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Antiquities Dealer Do?

An Antiquities Dealer is a professional who specializes in trading ancient artifacts, historical items, and antique collectibles.

They work in a niche market that caters to collectors, museums, and institutions that value the historical and cultural significance of these items.

They are responsible for sourcing antiquities from various places such as auctions, estate sales, individual sellers, and sometimes directly from archaeological sites.

The sourcing process often involves travel, research, and negotiation to acquire rare and valuable items.

Once they have obtained an antique, an Antiquities Dealer must authenticate its origins and establish its historical value.

This can involve consulting with experts, conducting historical research, and utilizing various methods of physical examination.

Furthermore, Antiquities Dealers are responsible for the preservation and conservation of these items.

They often work with conservation experts to ensure the appropriate handling and storage conditions are met to prevent deterioration and maintain the item’s value.

Antiquities Dealers are also responsible for selling these items.

They may operate a gallery or showroom, run an online shop, or participate in trade shows and auctions.

They must accurately describe each item’s historical significance and condition, set fair prices based on market values, and negotiate with potential buyers.

Additionally, Antiquities Dealers must stay updated with laws and regulations regarding the trade of antiquities, especially those related to cultural heritage and international customs.

Compliance with these laws is essential to ensure ethical and legal business practices.

 

Antiquities Dealer Qualifications and Skills

An antiquities dealer should have the skills and qualifications that align with the unique nature of their profession, such as:

• Detailed knowledge of art history and archaeology to correctly identify and value pieces, as well as to discern fakes from genuine items.
• Good research skills to accurately appraise items based on their historical significance, rarity, condition, and demand.
• Strong networking skills to establish relationships with collectors, museums, auction houses, and other dealers around the world.
• Negotiation and sales skills to buy items for the lowest possible price and sell them for the highest possible profit.
• Customer service skills to deal with clients professionally, building long-term relationships and client loyalty.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to accurately describe items to potential buyers and write detailed descriptions for online listings or auction catalogs.
• Understanding of legal requirements and ethical considerations related to the buying, selling, and exporting of antiquities.
• Patience and perseverance, as the process of finding, acquiring, and selling rare items can be time-consuming and competitive.

 

Antiquities Dealer Experience Requirements

Antiquities Dealers typically have a strong background in history, art history, archaeology, or a related field.

This could include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in any of these areas.

Entry-level antiquities dealers may have 1 to 3 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or assistant roles within museums, auction houses, or antiques shops.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are often considered skilled antiquities dealers.

They have likely honed their expertise through hands-on experience, working with a wide variety of artifacts and antiquities, and may have developed a specific area of specialty.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have developed significant professional networks within the antiquities world and may have experience in appraising, purchasing, and selling high-value items.

They may be ready for senior dealer roles or even own their own antiques business.

Continued learning and staying abreast of market trends and legal regulations around the buying and selling of antiquities is essential for all levels of experience in this field.

 

Antiquities Dealer Education and Training Requirements

Antiquities Dealers typically have a bachelor’s degree in Art History, Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.

A deep understanding and knowledge of the historical periods, cultural artifacts, and regions of specialty are essential.

This can be attained through extensive study and research.

Many dealers also hold a master’s degree or Ph.D. in areas like Art History, Classical Studies, or Archaeology.

Such advanced degrees can open up opportunities to deal with higher-value antiquities.

While not mandatory, certifications from respected organizations, like the Appraisers Association of America, can enhance a dealer’s credibility.

Internships or apprenticeships under experienced dealers are valuable as they provide first-hand experience in handling and assessing antiquities.

Continuing education is important in this field due to evolving knowledge about different periods and cultures.

Many dealers choose to participate in regular training, seminars, and workshops, to stay abreast of the latest findings and developments.

Knowledge of international trade laws and regulations, including those related to the trafficking of cultural property, is also necessary for this role.

It is important for Antiquities Dealers to ensure that their business practices are ethically and legally sound.

 

Antiquities Dealer Salary Expectations

An Antiquities Dealer can expect to earn an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can greatly vary depending on the dealer’s reputation, expertise, location, and the type and rarity of the artifacts they deal with.

Successful antiquities dealers who deal with high-value items can earn significantly more.

 

Antiquities Dealer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Antiquities Dealer need?

Antiquities Dealers should have a deep understanding and knowledge of history, culture, and art.

They must also possess exceptional research skills to authenticate and appraise items.

It’s essential for them to have strong networking skills to connect with collectors, auction houses, and other dealers.

They should also have negotiation and sales skills to effectively sell the items.

 

Do Antiquities Dealers need a degree?

A degree is not necessarily required to become an Antiquities Dealer, however, having a background in art history, archaeology, or a similar field can be beneficial.

This provides them with a deeper understanding of historical contexts, periods, and styles.

More importantly, Antiquities Dealers need to have a vast knowledge about various antiquities and their origins.

 

What should you look for in an Antiquities Dealer’s resume?

A strong Antiquities Dealer’s resume should demonstrate a rich knowledge in art history, archaeology, or a related field.

It should also show experience in the appraisal, authentication, and sale of antiquities.

Any connections with auction houses, museums, or established collectors would be a strong asset.

Finally, look for indications of good negotiation skills and ethical business practices.

 

What qualities make a good Antiquities Dealer?

A good Antiquities Dealer has an unending passion for history and culture.

They are meticulous in their research and have a good eye for authenticating items.

They have a vast network within the antiquities market and are able to skillfully negotiate transactions.

A good Antiquities Dealer also operates within the legal and ethical guidelines of the trade, respecting the cultural and historical significance of the items they deal with.

 

Is it difficult to hire Antiquities Dealers?

Hiring an Antiquities Dealer can be challenging due to the specialised knowledge required for this role.

Finding someone with the right mix of expertise in art history or archaeology, strong networking skills, and an ethical approach to business can take time.

However, tapping into networks of museums, auction houses, or art history programs can help find suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the enigma of what it truly means to be an antiquities dealer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about selling ancient artefacts.

It’s about curating the past, one unique item at a time.

With our definitive antiquities dealer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to plunge into the fascinating world of antiquities.

But why limit your exploration?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precise listings or refining your resume to the pinnacle of perfection.

Remember:

Each antiquity is a piece of the grand puzzle of history.

Let’s unravel that past. Together.

How to Become an Antiquities Dealer (Complete Guide)

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