Sothebys, founded in 1744, operates as an auctioneer of fine art, decorative items and collectibles. Its auction division offers purchase and resale of art, jewelry and collectibles, and brokerage of private purchases. The service offered by the company include auction estimates, trusts, estates and appraisals, tax and heritage valuations, museum and corporate art services. It also provides finance options to art collectors and dealers, and undertakes licensing activities. Sothebys Institute of Art offers graduate degree programs in the arts and organizes educational events in New York and London. The company offers online auctions, and has a retail jewelry subsidiary, which offers jewels for sale throughout Asia, Europe, and North America. Sotheby s is based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.