The veteran New York dealer announced his retirement from his New York gallery last year and sold a selection of paintings and sculpture in a single-owner auction held at Sotheby’s New York earlier this year.
George Wachter, chairman of Sotheby’s America and co-chairman of Sotheby’s Old Master paintings worldwide, said: “Over the course of his long and distinguished career, he has earned an impeccable reputation for his great eye, enormous knowledge, innovative thinking and trust-worthy character.”
Naumann originally specialised in Dutch and Flemish art but in the past decade expanded to include Italian, French, Spanish and British works as well as 19th century painting. He will also continue his academic work while working at Sotheby’s.
Naumann said: “For so many years on the outside looking in, I was always captivated by the power of a great team of specialists supported by a great organization. I am hugely excited by the possibilities and opportunities that come with my new role.”
The overall hammer total of Naumann's sale at Sotheby's on January 31, 2018 was $4.98m (£3.51m) with 30 of the 39 works (77%) finding buyers.
