One of the most compelling things about an art auction is not the tension in the room or the drama of the gavel being clapped down on a very large sum. Rather, it is watching art professionals at work.

Seriously, even when an dealer or a auction house specialist is clearly in full-on sales mode, there is an enormous amount to be learned from them as they describe the importance and appeal of a work of art. Most of us don’t see it because we’re not being sold. But here in Sotheby’s preview videos we can get a taste of some of best experts in their field situating a work in its context. If you’re not convinced, watch this: