The Art and Antique Dealers League of America

ABOUT THE LEAGUE

Over 100 fine art and antiques dealers - 80 fields of expertise

The Art and Antique Dealers League of America, Inc., is the oldest and principal antiques and fine arts organization in America.  It is an outgrowth of the Antiques Dealers Luncheon Club, which on January 7, 1926, met at the Madison Hotel in New York City and formed the Antique and Decorative Arts League.  In 1942, "to give the organization a wider ramification in every phase of the arts," the name was changed to the Art and Antique Dealers League of America, Inc. 

The purpose in formatting the league was to bring the various members of the art and antiques trade closer together to promote a greater understanding among themselves and with the public, and generally to devote itself to the best interest of dealers and collectors of antiques and works of art. 

The late James P. Montllor, an expert in Spanish art, was the primary mover behind the organization at its inception and throughout its early years.  The first president was the noted collector and dealer, Charles J. Duveen. 

In 1935 the League was one of six of the founding members of C.I.N.O.A. (La Confederation International des Negociants en Oeuvres d' Art), which is an international organization of art dealer’s associations

The League has strict standards for accepting members into the organization.  Each applicant must be an established dealer whose art objects are of the highest quality and who subscribes to a high moral code of ethics.  Each member must follow each of the Code of Ethics.  This code determines the manner in which the dealer conducts his business so as to command the respect and confidence of his clients.  Any member who does not adhere strictly to the Code of Ethics is expelled from the League.   This is important because the public must rely upon the judgments of the members who are considered experts in the realm of art and antiques experts. 

To purchase antiques or fine art with absolute confidence look for the blue and gold plaque and Member Certificate of the Art and Antique Dealers League of America, Inc.  League represents over 110 plus members in 60 fields of expertise.

Find out more about the Art and Antique Dealers League of America, Inc.