History

Stockholms Auktionsverk was established in 1674 which makes it the oldest auction house in the world. It was founded by Governor Claes Rålamb.

From 1674 to Internet
Many well known Swedes have past through the doors of Stockholms Auktionsverk. Names such as King Karl XII and August Strindberg- the author, playwright and artist. The City of Stockholm sold the company in 1993, today it is one of the most successful examples of privatisation. From auctions with grain and wine there is a long way to the modern auction house of today, with representatives all over Europe and homepages on the Internet.

At the end of the 17th century there were only circa 40.000-50.000 inhabitants in Stockholm. One of the great pleasures were to visit the city auctions. Stockholms Auktionsverk, established February 27th 1674, is the worlds oldest active auction house. At the time, Stockholms Auktionsverk had complete monopoly. Primarily livestock and grain were auctioned. Among the most well known clients were King Karl XII, who sold guns for 900 Daler silver and the Estates of the Realm, whom in 1721 sold Karl XII' trophy cannons. Further on such names as August Strindberg are found in the registers. August Strindberg sold books in the Book and Manuscripts auctions.

Up untill 1993 the company was owned by the city of Stockholm, but is now privately owned. The privatisation proved successful. The company, that arranges Fine Art auctions as well as Collector´s and city auctions, also has representatives in many European countries. With these homepages the company can also reach people all over the world! Many national treasures have been auctioned over the years such as August Strindbergs painting "Underlandet- the Wonderland", bought privately and subsequently donated to the National Museum of Stockholm. Renaissance, Baroque and Rococco furniture and art were all sold during their own period- along with the very popular Swedish Gustavian style, namned after the King Gustav III, who reigned from 1771 - 1792.