American Art: If that Childe Hassam absolutely has to go, Sotheby’s is the place. Its depth and experience in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century American painting is legendary.
Impressionism and Modern Art: Sotheby’s has taken down the big scores these past few seasons. But that just might make Christie’s the place to unload your lone Pissarro: It’s more likely to get the star treatment.
Contemporary Art: Christie’s owner François Pinault is a big collector. So the firm is more likely to offer a guaranteed minimum for a piece he wants for his new Paris museum.
Recent Art: For anything less than five years old, you’re best off with Phillips, de Pury & Company: The downsized auction house is making waves at this end of the market.