Basis of Presentation

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Basis of Accounting

Basis of Presentation

The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included herein have been prepared by Sotheby’s pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States of America (the “U.S.”) have been condensed or omitted from this report, as is permitted by such rules and regulations; however, management of Sotheby’s believes that the disclosures herein are adequate to make the information presented not misleading and that all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of results are reflected in the interim periods presented. It is suggested that these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in Sotheby’s 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K.