About Us

Our Story

L'Autographe Auctions, where history comes alive through the written words of iconic figures.

Our antiquarian department is dedicated exclusively to the captivating realm of autographs, showcasing letters and manuscripts penned by influential individuals across various domains of cultural history. From renowned writers and scientists to esteemed artists and politicians, our collections unveil the personal thoughts and moments of these exceptional personalities, offering a glimpse into their lives.

These manuscripts serve as invaluable testaments to pivotal moments in history, providing unparalleled insights into the minds of the past. Join us in exploring and trading these remarkable pieces that embody the essence of bygone eras.

Historical manuscript — LANNES, Jean, Marshal of France

For decades, L'Autographe S.A., partner of L'Autographe Ltd, has been a major player in the global manuscript market, and we are excited to continue this esteemed legacy in our London home. Curating prestigious auctions that bring together collectors, scholars and institutions who share a passion for rare and precious autographs, documents, manuscripts and books.

Our Team

Our Experts

Our team consists of highly knowledgeable experts in autographs and manuscripts. They possess a deep passion for collecting and a keen eye for authenticity. With their extensive expertise, they carefully evaluate and authenticate each autograph and manuscript that comes through our auctions.

They are dedicated to providing accurate and reliable information about the autographs and manuscripts we offer. They conduct thorough research, analyse historical records, compare signatures, and employ various authentication techniques to ensure the legitimacy of the items.

We take great pride in the expertise and professionalism of our team. Their commitment to maintaining the integrity of our auctions and providing the highest level of service is paramount.

Our Support Staff

In addition to our expert team of autograph and manuscript specialists, we also have a dedicated support team in our administrative and organisational departments. They play a vital role in ensuring that our auctions run smoothly and that our customers receive exceptional service.

Our support team is readily available to assist you with any administrative inquiries or logistical concerns you may have. They are well-trained and knowledgeable in handling various aspects of the auction process, including registration, bidding, payment, and delivery.

We understand that a seamless and efficient experience is crucial for our customers, and our support team is committed to providing prompt and helpful assistance every step of the way.

Meet the Team

Department Heads

Massimo Fino

Head of Department — Autographs, Books and Manuscripts

Massimo has extensive experience in autographs, manuscripts, and music books: he served as a manuscript and autograph consultant at Christie's International S.A. from 1985 to 2005. Subsequently, he began to work independently at LIM Sas in Lucca (Italy), a renowned publishing house specialising in musicology, and at the same time, he has been an autograph and music antiquarian.

In 2017, he began a consultancy activity at the L'Autographe bookshop in Geneva, focusing on autographs and musical manuscripts.

Recently, in 2022, he was appointed artistic director of the "Patmos Chamber Music Festival". Furthermore, he has provided his expertise as a consultant to various private collectors and public institutions, offering advice on manuscripts and archives.

Alessandro Giovannini

Head of Department — Old Master and Modern Prints

With a deep background in art curation and digital platforms, Alessandro Giovannini brings over two decades of experience in the art market. He has collaborated with major Italian auction houses, curated thematic exhibitions, and led departments focused on Modern and Contemporary Graphics and Design.

As founder, he has overseen the sale of thousands of artworks worldwide. His expertise bridges the classical tradition of Old Masters with a sharp eye for modern printmaking.