James Christie (auctioneer)

James Christie (1730 – 1803) was a Scottish auctioneer and the founder of Christie's, the renowned auction house. Born in Perth, Scotland, he moved to London where he began his career as an auctioneer, rapidly gaining a reputation for his eloquence, wit, and showmanship. He held his first auction in 1766 and officially founded Christie's in 1768.

Christie's quickly became a prominent venue for the sale of fine art, antiques, and other valuable items. Christie cultivated relationships with wealthy and influential patrons, including members of the British aristocracy and European royalty. His sales were known for their theatricality and entertainment value, often drawing large crowds eager to witness the bidding process and Christie's flamboyant personality.

Beyond his skills as an auctioneer, Christie was also a shrewd businessman. He skillfully navigated the art market, identifying trends and sourcing valuable items to sell. His success helped establish auctioneering as a respected profession and transformed the way art and other collectibles were bought and sold. Upon his death, the auction house passed to his son, James Christie the Younger, who continued to build upon his father's legacy.