Paris - Bonhams is pleased to announce the appointment of Silke Stahlschmidt, a highly respected art market professional with more than two decades of international experience across auction houses, galleries, and collection management, as Bonhams representative in Zurich, with immediate effect.
Bringing extensive expertise in Modern, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Silke joins Bonhams following senior positions in German and Swiss auction houses, where she developed an outstanding reputation for client advisory, business development, valuations, acquisitions, and auction leadership.
In her most recent role as Head of the Representative Office in Düsseldorf at Grisebach, she was responsible for strategic client acquisition, collection advisory, valuations, exhibition development and the overall management of the office. Prior to this, she spent more than a decade as Head of Post-War & Contemporary Art and Prints & Multiples at Koller Auctions in Zurich, leading specialist teams, overseeing major sales and cultivating relationships with collectors across Europe and beyond.
"Silke brings an exceptional combination of market expertise, leadership experience and client-focused advisory skills," said Catherine Yaiche, Bonhams Managing Director Europe. "Her deep understanding of the German-speaking art market and her longstanding relationships with collectors, institutions and industry professionals will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen Bonhams' presence throughout Switzerland, Germany, and Europe."
Throughout her career, Silke has worked closely with private collectors, artists, estates and international buyers, successfully placing significant works of art within the global marketplace. Her experience spans valuations, consignments, sales strategy, catalogue production, exhibition management and complex cross-border transactions.
A graduate of the Free University of Berlin, where she earned a Magister Artium in Art History, Modern History, and Media & Communication Studies, Silke also studied Art History at University College Dublin. Earlier in her career, she gained valuable experience through internships at institutions including Sotheby's London and Cologne, and Museum Ludwig in Cologne.
In addition to her professional activities, she serves on the board of BPW Düsseldorf e.V., helping develop networking initiatives and professional events that support leadership and advancement within the business community.
Commenting on her appointment, Silke Stahlschmidtsaid: "I am delighted to join Bonhams at such an exciting moment in its continued international growth. Bonhams combines global reach with specialist expertise and a highly client-focused approach. I look forward to working closely with collectors and clients across Switzerland and Germany while contributing to the company's development in the region and internationally."
This appointment further reinforces Bonhams' commitment to investing in local expertise and strengthening its relationships with collectors throughout Europe.