FAQ
How do I register and place a bid?
Create an account, log in, and head to the artwork you’d like to bid on. Enter any amount at or above the minimum bid and click “Place a bid”. Our automatic bidding system will then bid for you in the next increment, up to your maximum. You can also add works to your watchlist and receive email updates on bidding activity.
What is the Starting Bid and Gallery Value?
Each artwork shows either a Starting Bid or Gallery Value. The Gallery Value is the usual gallery price; the starting bid is typically 25–50% below that, giving you the chance to acquire strong works at favourable prices while directly supporting the artist.
How do payments, tax and fees work?
If you win, you’ll receive an email with checkout instructions. Payment in full is due within 7 days and can be made via bank transfer or our secure payment gateways. Prices for private buyers include statutory VAT where applicable. We do not charge a buyer’s premium; only shipping (or delivery) costs are added. For full details on payment deadlines, late fees and buyer obligations, please see our full auction terms.
How does delivery and pickup work?
You can either collect your artwork from Openhalle or arrange shipping. Delivery costs depend on size, weight and destination; all shipped works include tracking and insurance. Typical delivery times are 5–10 business days within Germany and 10–21 days internationally. Buyers outside the EU are responsible for any customs duties or local taxes. Details on collection deadlines and storage fees can be found in our full auction terms.
What if something goes wrong with my artwork?
All works are sold “as is” and can be viewed in person before and during the auction. Please check your piece promptly on arrival and report any significant damage within 48 hours, including photos. Returns are generally not accepted unless the work is materially not as described. The full conditions of sale, including warranties and liability, are outlined in our auction terms.
How does the auction end?
Each lot closes at a fixed time. If a bid is placed in the final 2 minutes, the auction for that lot will extend by 2 minutes (a “soft close”) to keep things fair. Some works may have reserve prices; if the reserve is not met, the work will not be sold. You can find the complete bidding rules in our full auction terms.
How do your bidding increments work?
Bidding increments determine the amount of the next bid that can be placed. Increments are based on the current bid and increase as bidding goes up. Our bidding increments are:
Under 250 €: 10 €
250 € — 500 €: 25 €
500 € — 1 000 €: 50 €
1 000 € – 5 000 €: 100 €
5 000 € and above: 250 €
Why was I immediately outbid?
If you are outbid immediately after placing a bid, it’s likely that another bidder is using ‘Max Bid’ (maximum bid) and has a maximum limit higher than yours. You’ll need to increase your maximum limit in order to be the highest bidder. Max Bid is explained further below.
What is a Max Bid?
The Max Bid (maximum bid) feature allows you to set the highest price you are willing to pay for the selected artwork. Our bidding system will then take care of the process, outbidding other bidders by the incremental value up to but not exceeding your maximum bid. Entering a Maximum Bid does not necessarily mean you will pay that price, and you may pay less.
What is the Watchlist all about?
If you’re curious about an artwork but not ready to make a bid, you can add the item to your watchlist. You will be notified of the bidding activity on the selected artwork via email.
Will I receive email notifications?
Yes. You’ll receive an email when your bid is confirmed, when you’re outbid, and if you win. Please register with a valid email address and check it regularly during the auction.
How do payments work?
Winning bidders receive an email after the auction with checkout instructions. We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.
- Payment deadline: within 7 days of invoice.
- Payment security: all transactions are encrypted.
- Failed payments: if payment is not completed within the deadline, the sale may be cancelled and the work offered to the next highest bidder.