Job Title

Overview Temporary Full-Time; 2 year contract (35 hours per week). Located in Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest art museums in North America, with a collection of more than 120,000 works. We are currently seeking a Temporary Full-Time Assistant Curator of Provenance, European Art to join our Curatorial team. Working with the Associate Curator, European Art and the Registrar, Collections Information and with the Provenance Restitution and Repatriation Committee, the Assistant Curator leads self-directed, in-depth research related to the history of ownership of art in the AGO collection, proposed purchases, and gifts offered to the AGO for donation. The Assistant Curator works with donors, dealers, and colleagues internationally to navigate ownership disputes over works of art, and makes recommendations to the AGOs Collections Committee on the ethical accessioning and de-accessioning of European art. The Assistant Curator must organize their own work based on urgency and maintain discretion when communicating sensitive information. The position requires highly-specialized training and prior experience in provenance research. Key Responsibilities Facilitates acquisition processes through research, provenance checks, and documentation. Conduct thorough research on the provenance of proposed gifts and purchases. Work with donors and dealers to procure information to establish ownership histories. Identify and resolve missing periods in ownership histories. Identify and pursue archives to establish provenance data. Maintain confidentiality and discretion. Make recommendations to curators and committees on acquisitions and de-accessioning of works with complex provenance histories. Conduct in-depth research on existing collection items and prospective acquisitions, including provenance research, scholarly articles, and cataloging descriptions. Coordinate and plan own work, consult relevant databases and archives, and manage inquiries from third parties. Identify potential claimants and engage experts to pursue ethical resolution. Liaise with external legal counsel as needed. Document all research according to AGO protocols and present findings to the Provenance Restitution and Repatriation Committee and relevant Curatorial Committees, making recommendations about acquisitions and de-accessioning. Provide research support to external scholars and researchers seeking provenance information. Collaborate with domestic and international partners to promote provenance research. Ongoing study to remain current with Holocaust looted art and stolen art resources, claims and legalities, and share knowledge with peers across the institution and at neighboring institutions through educational programming. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications, Skills & Experience Minimum MA in art history, with demonstrated knowledge of European sculpture and decorative arts; preference for PhD in art history or relevant field Completed coursework or non-degree training in provenance research At least three years of prior work experience related to provenance research Proficiency in English and German plus another relevant language (e.g., Italian, Dutch, French) Current knowledge and experience related to international Holocaust research, restitution, databases and archives, and related policies and legislation High level of discretion in maintaining confidentiality Exceptional organizational skills Language & Location Language of Work: English Location of Work: Art Gallery of Ontario, 317 Dundas Ave West, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4 Compensation & Benefits Hourly rate from $42.82 - $53.51 CAD, based on qualifications, skills, and experience Annual wage increases Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits Long-term disability and Life insurance; Group insurance Pension plan after one year of service Paid vacation days after one year of service Relocation allowance considered Discounts and free tickets to AGO and partner attractions To Apply: Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications online at In-person applications may be dropped off at the Shipping Dock (next to the Jackman Hall entrance on McCaul Street) during hours MondayFriday 8:30 AM4:00 PM. We thank all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility: At the AGO, we foster inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility and embed these values into our strategic plan and priorities. Contact Information: Abigail Campbell 416 979 6660 x6300 #J-18808-Ljbffr