Business Details
Expert Rare Books and Manuscripts Auctions in London
Forum Auctions is a specialist auction house dedicated to rare books, manuscripts, limited edition prints, and works on paper spanning from 1500 to the present day. We curate exceptional auctions that connect collectors, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs globally, offering a diverse collection of literary, artistic, and historical treasures. Our market-leading online auction platform, established in 2016, provides a seamless experience for participants worldwide, supported by a dedicated client services team. We prioritise integrity and transparency, ensuring rigorous provenance verification and condition assessment for every item.Our team of world-class specialists brings deep expertise across all areas of the works on paper market, fostering a vibrant community united by a passion for collecting. We are committed to ethical practices and client satisfaction, offering personalised guidance to both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Through innovative technology and a focus on accessibility, we continue to transform the auction experience while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
Services
Rare Book Auctions
Manuscript Valuations
Prints and Multiples
Maps and Atlases
Banksy Prints
Photographs and Photobooks
Private Collection Sales
International Shipping
Expert Authentication
Online Bidding
Highlights and features
- We offer market-leading expertise in works on paper spanning five centuries
- Our innovative online platform enables global participation in live auctions
- We guarantee rigorous provenance verification for every auctioned item
- Our dedicated client team provides personalised support for all participants
- We maintain the highest ethical standards in auction practices
What people say
Market leading technology
Professional packing
Honest pricing
Seamless experience
Exceptional service
Services
Rare Book Auctions
Our rare book auctions feature first editions, historic manuscripts, and literary treasures spanning multiple centuries. We attract global collectors through rigorous authentication and expert curation. Our market-leading platform enables seamless participation for bidders worldwide.
Manuscript Valuations
Specialist valuations for historic manuscripts and documents combine academic expertise with market knowledge. We assess provenance, condition, and rarity to provide accurate market valuations. Our services support both private collectors and institutional clients.
Prints and Multiples
We offer comprehensive auctions covering works on paper from 1500 to contemporary pieces. Our specialists handle limited edition prints, etchings, and multiples by renowned artists. The department attracts international buyers seeking quality works at accessible price points.
Banksy Prints
Our dedicated Banksy print auctions feature authenticated limited editions from this influential contemporary artist. We provide detailed provenance verification and market analysis. Our platform enables collectors to participate in this dynamic segment of the art market.
Online Bidding
Our innovative online platform allows global participation in live auctions with real-time bidding. The system combines user-friendly interface with secure transaction processing. We provide technical support to ensure seamless digital auction experiences for all participants.
People
Stephan Ludwig
Executive Chairman
Stephan Ludwig leads Forum Auctions with extensive experience in the art market. He oversees strategic direction while maintaining close involvement in specialist departments. His leadership focuses on innovation and maintaining auction integrity.
Rupert Powell
Deputy Chairman
Rupert Powell serves as International Head of Books, bringing decades of specialist knowledge. He manages high-profile book collections and advises major collectors. His expertise spans rare manuscripts and historic literary works.
Vicki Wonfor
Chief Executive Officer
Vicki Wonfor directs day-to-day operations with a focus on client satisfaction. She oversees auction logistics and digital platform development. Her leadership ensures efficient service delivery across all departments.
Poppy Walker
Director
Poppy Walker manages auction production and client relations. She coordinates between specialists and bidders to ensure smooth auction processes. Her role bridges operational management with customer service excellence.
Richard Carroll
Specialist
Richard Carroll specialises in 16th-19th century works on paper. He conducts detailed authentication and provides expert cataloguing. His academic background supports accurate valuation of historic documents and prints.
Questions
What specialisms do Forum Auctions cover?
We specialise in rare books, manuscripts, works on paper from 1500-present, Banksy prints, maps, and photographs. Our experts handle items spanning five centuries of literary and artistic history.
How can I participate in auctions?
Register online to bid through our market-leading platform, or contact us for telephone bidding options. Our user-friendly system allows real-time participation from anywhere in the world.
What valuation services are available?
Submit item details through our website or contact specialists directly. We provide professional valuations for single items or entire collections, with expert assessment of provenance and market value.
How are item authentications handled?
Our specialists conduct rigorous provenance checks using academic resources and market databases. We provide detailed authentication documentation for all auction items to ensure buyer confidence.
What shipping options exist?
We coordinate secure shipping worldwide through trusted partners. Our team handles packing and logistics to ensure safe delivery of purchased items to international destinations.
How does the auction process work?
Browse upcoming auctions online, register to bid, and participate live. Successful bidders receive payment instructions, with options for collection or secure shipping after settlement.
