Christies, widely recognized as the world’s oldest fine art auction house, traces its origins to December 5, 1766, when James Christie conducted the company’s first sale in London. From its earliest days, Christie’s specialized in the sale of fine art and luxury goods, including furniture, jewelry, and decorative objects, establishing itself as a central marketplace for high-value cultural and collectible items. Throughout the late 18th and 19th centuries, Christie’s became closely associated with prominent collectors, aristocratic estates, and important art transactions, helping to shape the international art market. The auction house developed a reputation for expertise, discretion, and the ability to attract significant works of art, which contributed to its long-standing influence in the industry. Over time, Christie’s expanded globally, conducting auctions in major cities and broadening its categories to include wine, watches, and contemporary collectibles. The company has played a key role in setting benchmark prices, developing auction standards, and professionalizing the sale of fine art. Its history reflects the evolution of auctions from local sales into a global marketplace for cultural assets.