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1stDibs reveals how to identify rare pieces as it launches brand new auction function

You can now bid on treasures from the luxury online marketplace

white armchairs from 1stDibs
(Image credit: 1stDibs)

1stDibs is a Pandora's box of beautifully designed furniture, antiques, lighting and decor. The luxury marketplace has just announced the launch of its much-anticipated auctions function, which is live on the website now. 

This means anyone using the 1stDibs site to track down unique conversation pieces for their home will now be able to place a bid on their favorite items – potentially winning hard-to-find treasures at excellent prices. 

Incorporating unusual, old pieces is one of our favorite interior design tips when it comes to making a home feel unique. Here, Editorial Director at 1stDibs Tony Freund reveals how to find the crème de la crème.

leather armchairs from 1stDibs

(Image credit: 1stDibs)

Thousands of items are now available to explore on the auction section of the 1st Dibs website, from mid-century modern armchairs to a French grandfather clock from the 1700s. You can shop with confidence as all of the pieces come from the 1stDibs community of vetted sellers.

For the home, there is a vast range of outstanding furniture, home décor and art pieces that would make a real statement among your existing living room ideas. You can also place bids on fine jewellery, watches, handbags, and fashion items.

As we said, the auction section is a real treasure trove, and there will be new pieces to discover each time you visit. Each auction will last a total of seven days, however if you do have your heart set on one individual piece, you can secure it before the bidding starts with a ‘Buy It Now’ cost.

Small Rare Mid-Century Cabinet Bar Osvaldo Borsani Italian Design

(Image credit: 1stDibs)

The secret to uncovering rare pieces

Tony Freund, Editorial Director at 1stDibs has shared his practical recommendation for finding rare and unusual pieces. He suggests you 'search terms and creators in mind' in order to narrow down the results.

'For instance,' he says, 'such legendary makers as Jacques Adnet, Fontana Arte, Alex Katz and Cartier all have pieces in the launch collection.' Tony goes on to say that you’d be hard-pressed not to find something rare or unusual among the 1stDibs auction lots. 

'1stDibs has long appealed to design and art lovers because it offers the thrill of discovery just around every corner,' adds Tony. 'The same will be true as you scroll through our auction lots.'

Large Gilt Brass and Glass Chandelier Lamp, Palwa circa 1960

(Image credit: 1stDibs)

To celebrate the launch of the auction function, the 1stDibs team has worked with globally recognized design figure Jonathan Adler and fashion expert Simon Doonan to curate a collection of their very favorite auction finds. The in-house curation team will also be updating the collections on the block, with an eye for the most unique and surprising items. 

Bidding on and buying antique furniture online is in equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. However, every auction purchase is covered by 1stDibs Buyer Protection.

Millie Hurst
Section Editor

Millie Hurst is a freelance lifestyle writer with over six years of experience in digital journalism. Having previously worked as Solved Section Editor at Homes & Gardens and Senior SEO Editor at News UK in London and New York, Millie has written for an array of homes brands including Livingetc and Real Homes and was formerly Senior Content Editor at Ideal Home. She has written and edited countless features on home organization, decluttering and interior design and always hopes to inspire readers with new ways to enjoy their homes. She lives in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, and loves to weave nature-inspired decor and nods to time spent in Italy into her own home.