The art auction world is a fascinating blend of history, expertise, and passion. Few understand this better than Carles Viñas, the director and owner of Templum Fine Art Auctions, based in Barcelona. With a deep-rooted connection to the art world, Viñas has dedicated his career to bringing exceptional, historically significant pieces to collectors worldwide.
In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into the origins of his auction house, the challenges of running a high-end auction business, and the role of technology in modernizing the industry.
Templum Fine Art Auctions is located in Barcelona, a city with a rich cultural and historical tradition that inspires its operations. Specializing in high-period works, the auction house has been in operation for five years, focusing on international sales. Their expertise spans artworks of significant historical and aesthetic value, which are carefully selected with academic rigor. The house’s mission is to provide collectors and art enthusiasts access to authentic and exceptional pieces, bridging tradition with a modern, global approach. Each sale is seen as an opportunity to connect clients with works that transcend their material form, embodying centuries of history and artistic mastery.
Carles, what led you to start your own auction house? Was there a particular moment or inspiration behind it?
I have always felt a deep connection with art, especially high-period works. Founding Templum Fine Art Auctions allowed me to transform that passion into a space where art, history, and collectors come together. I also saw an opportunity to offer a personalized and professional approach in a sector that demands both expertise and trust.
What kind of items do you specialize in?
We focus on high-period pieces, particularly from the Renaissance through to the Baroque. Our catalog includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, and decorative objects, all carefully selected for their strong historical significance. We aim to offer works that not only possess artistic value but also tell a compelling historical story.
Is there a particular sale that stands out as especially memorable for you?
One that comes to mind is the sale of a Renaissance altarpiece of Italian origin. The piece was remarkable not just for its artistic quality but also for its exceptional state of preservation and prestigious provenance. It was thrilling to see the strong international interest it generated, and in the end, it found a home in a private European collection. This sale reinforced our mission of connecting the past with the present through historically significant art.
If you could auction any piece, what would be your dream item?
It would be an incredible honor to auction a work attributed to Caravaggio or Velázquez—two masters whose pieces represent the pinnacle of their time and are rarely seen on the market. These artworks not only attract collectors but also institutions that appreciate their historical and cultural importance.
What advice would you give to someone looking to open an auction house?
For anyone considering opening an auction house, I would say that a strong foundation in art history is essential, along with a team that shares your vision and expertise. It’s also crucial to build a network of international contacts and establish trust with clients through transparency and professionalism.
For those looking to sell an item, my advice is to carefully choose the right auction house—one that appreciates the true value of your piece and can present it effectively to the right audience.
What do you find most challenging about running an auction house?
The biggest challenge is staying competitive in a globalized market, where buyer expectations are constantly evolving. This means not only selecting exceptional pieces but also ensuring that the auction process is seamless, transparent, and accessible to buyers worldwide.
From a technical perspective, what do you think makes a great auction management system?
A good auction management system needs to be intuitive, efficient, and adaptable to the needs of an auction house. It should allow for easy catalog management, real-time online bidding, and smooth client communication, all while maintaining the highest security standards.
How long have you been using the Bidspirit system?
We have been using Bidspirit for several years now, and it has been a key tool in expanding our international presence. The platform has allowed us to reach a wider audience and offer a more accessible and dynamic bidding experience.
How has Bidspirit helped improve your auction house operations?
Bidspirit has significantly streamlined our management, especially for online auctions. Its intuitive interface allows us to organize lots efficiently, and its international reach has attracted buyers who might not have participated in a traditional auction. It has been a crucial tool in modernizing our operations while ensuring that we remain focused on high season.
