Antiques and fine arts auctions in Malta : a sociological study

Abstract

The dissertation shall concentrate primarily on bringing out the salient social features of antiques and fine art auctions. The study shall first assess the setting for the study, giving a general view of the local society. It then moves to discuss class stratifaction in Malta. With this as a pretext, the dissertation moves present the theory on which it is built. Auctions are manifestations of social uneasiness amongst members from the highest circles of society. A continuous struggle takes place in the auction-room, as different members seek to assert their power and status within their social group. The second chapter presents the - world of auctions, showing their relevance in modern societies in manifesting conflict within a specific social group, which is primarily done through the allocation of these commodities. It also enters the actual auction world through a short analytical description of a typical antiques and fine art auction held in Malta. Where special attention is given to the social perspective of the whole process. It goes on to discuss the most important feature of any auction - The Bidding. The third chapter delves deeper in the reasons why antiques and fine art auctions are the right venues for recognition and confirmation of status within this social group. This is mainly due to the strong social background which wraps up auctions. It enters into such elements like publicity, self-aggrandisement, anonymity and others which all contribute towards finding the possible reasons why auctions are such sought after venues for settling conflict with this social group. The following chapter is dedicated to the people who make up the auction community again with special reference to the local scene. Here the main dynamics of the community are outlined and discussed. Techniques used by the auctioneer in bringing together or creating a distance between the participants, depending on the needs of the auction at that moment, are also assessed. The dissertation is concluded with a round up of the various issues which were raised in the study. Some of the deductions made in the research as well as some personal comments about the various issues raised arc also included. To aid those who are not familiar with auctions a glossary has been incorporated.