Sotheby's operates as an auctioneer of authenticated fine art, decorative art, jewelry, wine, and collectibles in the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, China, Switzerland, France, and internationally. The company accepts property on consignment; matches sellers to buyers through the auction process; offers art-related financing services, such as term loans secured by artworks; and provides art advisory service. It is also involved in the sale of artworks; and owns of an auction house for investment-quality automobiles. The company is also involved in the retail wine operations; licensing of Sotheby's International Realty and related trademarks; and licensing of its Sotheby's brand name for use in connection with the art auction business in Australia, as well as art education services in the United States and the United Kingdom. Sotheby's was founded in 1744 and is headquartered in New York, New York. Sotheby's operates as a subsidiary of BidFair Holdings Inc.