Phillips' outgoing Asia chairman Jonathan Crockett will leave the auction house on September 2, closing a chapter that helped shape the company's footprint across the region. After more than a decade leading its Asian expansion, Crockett is returning to the UK, where he says family and a new personal rhythm now take priority.
His career in the region spans nearly 20 years in Hong Kong, with earlier roles at Sotheby's in London and Hong Kong, followed by his own advisory work. At Phillips, he played a central role in building the firm's Hong Kong base in 2016 and extending its reach into major Asian cities including Tokyo, Taipei, and Jakarta.
During his tenure, Asian participation in Phillips' global sales grew sharply. One standout moment came in 2022, when Jean-Michel Basquiat's Untitled sold for $85 million to an Asian buyer, setting a record for the house. More recently, Phillips' Hong Kong sales in March topped $76 million, driven by stronger demand from Japanese collectors.
Crockett describes the Asian art market as dynamic and constantly evolving. He notes that collector behavior has shifted over time, moving from pandemic-era online buying and speculative ultra-contemporary art toward a renewed focus on mid-career and established artists. He also points to strong activity in luxury watches and traditional Chinese art categories in Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, Crockett believes the next phase of the market will depend on adaptability, collector trust, and the ability to present compelling works in a changing global environment. His departure marks the end of one era for Phillips, while the region's art scene continues to evolve with new tastes and new opportunities.
