Strauss & Co is South Africa’s leading auction house focussing on fine and decorative arts, jewellery, collectables and wine. It was founded in 2009 by a consortium of business leaders and industry experts, including the late auctioneer Stephan Welz, Elisabeth Bradley, Dr Conrad Strauss, Vanessa Phillips, Ann Palmer and Bina Genovese. Frank Kilbourn, a respected entrepreneur, philanthropist and art collector, was appointed Executive Chairperson in 2016. Strauss &co; Co has the highest market share globally amongst the four leading auction houses specializing in South African art. Its annual program of events consists of five live auctions – three held in Cape Town, and two presented in Johannesburg – and up to eight online-only auctions. It began its digital journey in 2013 and in 2020 successfully hosted South Africa’s first-ever virtual live auction. Strauss &co; Co is committed to education and community engagement; to this end, it underwrites various initiatives including bursaries, charity events, public lectures and exhibitions. Strauss &co; Co was awarded the prestigious Chairman’s Premier Award at the 2018 annual BASA Awards for its sustained and extraordinary commitment to the arts in South Africa.