Works of art is a term used in the antiques trade and by auction houses for a broad category of fine decorative objects that do not fit neatly into furniture, paintings, ceramics or silver. It typically covers sculpture and bronzes, carvings in wood, ivory, stone and other materials, enamels, objets de vertu, metalwork, clocks, scientific curiosities, boxes, mounted objects and other high-quality decorative items.
Auction houses often hold dedicated Works of Art sales, sometimes divided into European, Asian or Islamic sections, and specialists in this field need wide knowledge of materials, techniques and periods. Many objects within the category were once displayed in cabinets of curiosities or on the chimneypieces and tables of country houses, and they add interest, texture and individuality to an interior. In a more general sense, the phrase is also used to describe any object created with artistic intent. When collecting works of art, quality of workmanship, rarity, condition and provenance are the key factors in determining interest and value.
