Sourcing Agent & Curator for Vintage Mid-Century Furniture

A sourcing agent operates at the intersection of historical research, manual labor, and high-stakes negotiation. The day-to-day rhythm alternates between the physical exertion of scouting estate sales or warehouses and the meticulous digital work of cataloging and marketing inventory. Success requires a deep understanding of manufacturing history, material science, and design provenance to distinguish authentic masterpieces from mass-market reproductions.

The work environment is often unpredictable, requiring constant travel and the ability to evaluate the structural integrity of furniture on the spot. Professionals in this field solve complex logistical problems regarding international shipping and climate-controlled storage. Those who thrive are typically disciplined self-starters with a keen eye for aesthetics and the patience to oversee long-term restoration projects that return damaged heirlooms to their original condition.

responsibilities

Identify authentic mid-century pieces through estate auctions, private collections, and international wholesalers.

Evaluate the condition and historical significance of furniture to determine potential resale value.

Manage relationships with specialized craftspeople for upholstery, woodworking, and metal restoration.

Photograph and document inventory for digital storefronts and architectural catalogs.

Negotiate purchase prices and shipping logistics to maintain profitable margins.

Advise interior designers and private clients on investment-grade furniture acquisitions.

Maintain an active database of provenance and historical manufacturer records.

qualificationsRequired

Extensive knowledge of 20th-century design movements, architects, and manufacturers.

Proven experience in the appraisal and valuation of vintage furniture and decorative arts.

Technical proficiency in furniture restoration techniques and material preservation.