The offering at Mishcon de Reya LLP is well-equipped to assist its portfolio of clients on domestic and cross-jurisdictional matters, ranging from advising on large-scale art transactions such as buying, selling, exhibiting and loaning, and complex financing matters, to handling claims of repatriation of property looted during the Nazi period. Amanda Gray, who is noted by clients as ‘one of the most brilliant lawyers’, co-heads the team alongside ’doyenne of art law in London’ Karen Sanig. Complex, international gallery and auction disputes form a key part of Gray’s practice, and Sanig is equipped to assist a breadth of clients, including artists’ estates, collectors, dealers, art foundations and charities, auction houses, galleries, museums and governments. Simon Chadwick handles the full range of art-related commercial disputes, and the ‘incredibly knowledgeable’ Michelle Stroube is also a name to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘In terms of the art world, there really is no other firm that comes anywhere close to their level of understanding. The contemporary art landscape is specific, and artists' needs are complex. The ability of the team to get to the core of an issue and think and act strategically without compromising artistic integrity is totally unique.’
‘Amanda Gray is one of the most brilliant lawyers you will ever find. She has a very unique ability to understand the depth of artistic intention and the conceptual nature of art itself. She can translate that into interactions with the law. She gets stuff done and even in stressful situations enables the artist to feel assured that their affairs are in the best, most capable hands.’
‘A team with a 30-year track record is always a good place to start. They have all bases covered at Mishcon when it comes to art law: commercial, disputes, museums, collectors. You name it!’
‘Amanda Gray is a fantastic lawyer and wonderful person to work with; Karen Sanig is the doyenne of art law in London, so knowledgeable; Simon Chadwick is a brilliant mind with a steady hand; Michelle Stroube has progressed immeasurably at the firm to become the go-to contracts specialist; and Mona Yapova is a strong and compelling advocate.’
‘The depth of knowledge of the team and the years of experience as a frontrunner in this field stand out.’
‘Karen Sanig’s knowledge, thoughtfulness, attention-to-detail and practical advice continues to make her the lead and standout lawyer in the field of art law. She is ably assisted and supported by her team, including Michelle Stroube.’
Key clients
- The Estate of Norval Morrisseau
- David Aaron Limited
- Camden Art Centre
- The Board of Trustees of the Tate Gallery
- Tate Enterprises Ltd
- Tate Foundation
- International Art and Antiques Loss Register (ALR)
- The Photographers Gallery (TPG)
Work highlights
Acting for a collector in a multi-jurisdictional dispute regarding ownership of artworks.
Advising the Estate to seek to unravel issues arising from the "biggest art fraud in the world" in order to help future proof the artist's legacy, including putting in place the necessary structures to bring confidence back to the artist's market and advising on the development of authentication services.
Representing a collection in relation to multiple acquisitions, sales, guarantees, loans and issues relating to revocation of an export license in a European jurisdiction.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Michelle Stroube
Practice head
Karen Sanig; Amanda Gray
Other key lawyers
Simon Chadwick; Michelle Stroube; Mona Yapova