Founded in 1987 by fine art appraiser Paul D. Marinucci, Butterscotch Auctioneers & Appraisers is one of the preeminent auction galleries in the New York City area. It is the oldest and foremost auction in Westchester County and has earned a reputation for personalized service and high-quality merchandise among consignors and buyers alike.

Specializing in estates and large collections, Butterscotch brings expertise across a broad range of categories, including fine art, jewelry, Asian art, mid-century design, antique furniture, decorative arts, books, manuscripts, and silver. Unlike larger houses that have shifted focus to high-profile items and online-only bidding, Butterscotch combines global reach with hands-on service. Every consignor and collection, regardless of size, receives personal attention and the opportunity for in-person viewing. Initial consultations are always complimentary, and inquiries are welcome via the website or email.

Butterscotch holds three major estate auctions annually at the landmark, 200-year-old Historical Hall in Bedford Village, NY—a unique setting that reflecting its commitment to tradition and serves as a striking backdrop for the sale of fine items. These events, which are also broadcast live across multiple online auction platforms, attract competitive bidding from collectors, dealers, museum curators, and private individuals from around the world.

Over the years, Butterscotch has set numerous auction records, including:

• A monumental still-life by Dutch Golden Age artist Rachel Ruysch (1664-1750), which sold for $2,040,000—a world auction record for the artist

• A rare Grueby low-form vase sold for $102,000—the highest price ever paid for the form and one of the highest prices ever paid for a piece of Grueby at auction

• A mixed-media-construction painting by Brazilian artist Rubens Gerchman (1942-2008) which sold for $48,000—a new world record for the artist at auction.

In addition to auction services, Butterscotch offers professional written appraisals for estate planning, probate, donation, and insurance purposes, with all reports prepared to Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) standards, as recognized by the IRS.

Butterscotch is led by founder Paul Marinucci, a fine art specialist with a focus on American paintings, and Ann Marinucci, a GIA-certified gemologist and jewelry expert. Senior appraiser Brendan B. Ryan, a certified member of the Appraisers Association of America (AAA), leads the firm’s appraisal and research division. The team also includes Miguel Ortega, who manages photography and logistics.