About Us

For more than 30 years, Silvia Waltner has advised collectors, estates, attorneys, and institutions on the acquisition, valuation, and sale of important works of art. Her career spans leadership positions at Christie's and Phillips, as well as decades of independent advisory work, giving her a unique perspective on the international art market and the confidence to guide clients through every stage of collecting.

Silvia began her career at Christie's New York in 1986, where she became Vice President and Head of the Latin American Paintings Department. She directed auctions totaling more than $20 million annually, secured major consignments from private collectors and estates, and played an important role in the development of the Latin American art market.

From 1997 to 2002, Silvia lived in Zurich and Tokyo, advising private collectors and writing about the international art market for Nikkei Art Magazine. She later joined Phillips as Vice President and Regional Director for the Pacific Northwest, where she represented leading collectors, negotiated significant consignments, and conducted appraisals for auction, insurance, and estate planning.

In 2023, Silvia founded Silvia Waltner Fine Art Services, an independent practice offering personalized art advisory and appraisal services. She assists clients with acquisitions, collection management, estate planning, charitable giving, insurance appraisals, and auction representation, always providing objective advice tailored to each client's goals.

An Accredited Member of the American Society of Appraisers, Silvia prepares USPAP-compliant appraisals and is recognized for her integrity, discretion, and deep understanding of the global art market.

Beyond advisory and appraisal work, Silvia curates bespoke art-centered journeys that provide privileged access to private collections, artist studios, museums, and major international art fairs. These carefully designed experiences allow collectors to engage with art in meaningful and unforgettable ways.

Silvia is a former President and current Sustaining Member of the Seattle Art Museum Supporters and has completed graduate coursework in Art History at the University of Washington. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Barnard College.

With more than 30 years of experience at Christie's, Phillips, and as an independent advisor, Silvia Waltner helps collectors, estates, attorneys, and institutions acquire, value, and sell important works of art while creating extraordinary opportunities to experience art around the world.

Email: silvia@silviawaltner.com 

Telephone: +1-206-604-6695