Top Auction Houses in India

The Indian art market is currently experiencing a “coming-of-age” moment, with 2026 seeing record-breaking sales and a maturing ecosystem of collectors. If you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply track the value of Indian modern and contemporary masterpieces, these are the top 10 auction houses leading the scene.

1. Saffronart

Founded in 2000, Saffronart is the undisputed heavyweight of the Indian art market. Known for pioneering the online auction model in India, it recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. It handles high-value “blue-chip” works by masters like V.S. Gaitonde and S.H. Raza.

Specialty: Modern and Contemporary Indian Art, Jewelry, and Textiles.
Link: saffronart.com

2. AstaGuru

AstaGuru has rapidly climbed the ranks to become a primary competitor to Saffronart. They are famous for their themed auctions, including “Collectors Choice” and “Mainline” sales that feature the most coveted names in Indian art history.

Specialty: Rare Masterpieces, Vintage Watches, and Memorabilia.
Link: astaguru.com

3. Pundole’s

Operating out of Mumbai, Pundole’s has a heritage that dates back to the iconic Pundole Art Gallery. They are highly respected for their scholarship and their ability to source rare, high-provenance works from private estates.

Specialty: Modern Indian Art and Classical Antiquities.
Link: pundoles.com

4. deRivaz & Ives

A newer but incredibly aggressive player in the market, deRivaz & Ives has carved out a niche by focusing on “the heritage of the image.” They frequently hold auctions for film memorabilia and modern Indian art.

Specialty: Film Posters, Photography, and Modern Masterpieces.
Link: derivaz-ives.com

5. Prinseps

Prinseps is known for its research-heavy approach, often focusing on specific movements or estates (like the Bhanu Athaiya or Rathindranath Tagore estates). They are a go-to for collectors looking for works with deep historical narratives.

Specialty: Estate Sales, Textiles, and Rare Books.
Link: prinseps.com

6. Artiana

While based in Dubai, Artiana is a major force in the Indian circuit due to its “No Buyer’s Premium” policy. It focuses heavily on South Asian art and provides a seamless digital platform for Indian bidders.

Specialty: Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art.
Link: artiana.com

7. Todywalla Auctions

Originally famous as India’s leading numismatic (coin) auction house, Todywalla has expanded significantly into the fine arts. They are excellent for finding “classical” Indian art and historical artifacts.

Specialty: Coins, Medals, and Paintings.
Link: todywallaauctions.com

8. Conferro Heritae

Conferro specializes in “National Treasures” and heritage items. They are often the house of choice for vintage collectibles, old master drawings, and items of significant cultural history.

Specialty: Heritage Collectibles and Vintage Art.
Link: conferroauctions.com

9. Marudhar Arts

Based in Bangalore, Marudhar Arts is a powerhouse for antiquities. While they lead in numismatics and paper money, their art auctions often feature significant historical Indian paintings and lithographs.

Specialty: Antiquities and Historical Paper Art.
Link: marudhararts.com

10. Bid & Hammer

Bid & Hammer is one of India’s established multi-category auction houses. They hold sales across a wide range of decorative arts, including furniture, carpets, and fine paintings.