Waddington’s Auction House

Founded in 1850, Waddington?s auction house is Canada?s oldest and most diverse provider of auction and appraisal services. The company consists of a team of specialists, who provide consultative expertise in a wide range of subjects including Inuit art, Fine and Decorative arts, antiques, fine jewellery, and collectibles. Each year thousands of items are offered through their regular estate auctions, online sales and monthly art auctions. They are also able to offer expert advice in the downsizing of a collection or in establishing a fair market value on property for tax purposes. Read more waddingtons.ca

The company began life when Andrew Henderson originally of Paisley, Scotland opened his auction rooms on lower Yonge Street. In 1863 the company which now included Henderson’s son Charles moved to 128 King Street East where the “C. M. Henderson & Co. – Auctioneers” sign would hang for the next 75 years, solidifying the name of Henderson’s as the auction house of Toronto.

Exploring the Top Auction Houses in Toronto

In 1960 young British auctioneer Ronald McLean arrived in Toronto to work for Ward-Price and soon became a partner, eventually purchasing the company from Frank Waddington’s two sons “on a handshake”. Under Ron’s direction the company continued to develop its reputation as a Toronto institution. In 1969 expanding business necessitated a move to larger facilities at 189 Queen Street East.

Waddington’s is currently staging dual spring auctions which bring together a diverse range of historical and contemporary works. These include Inuit and First Nations art as well as Canadian and International Fine Art. Each sale reflects meticulous vetting and selections from important private collections and estates and showcases a breadth of remarkable lots.