CEO Separation Costs CEO Separation Costs	12 Months Ended
CEO Separation Costs CEO Separation Costs	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
CEO Separation Costs	CEO Separation Costs In the fourth quarter of 2014, Sotheby's recognized $7.6 million of compensation-related costs associated with the amended employment agreement with and resignation of William F. Ruprecht as CEO. The $7.6 million charge consists of a $4 million severance accrual and $3.6 million for accelerated recognition of share-based payment expense triggered by the terms of his employment agreement.

The entire disclosure for compensation costs, including compensated absences accruals, compensated absences liability, deferred compensation arrangements and income statement compensation items. Deferred compensation arrangements may include a description of an arrangement with an individual employee, which is generally an employment contract between the entity and a selected officer or key employee containing a promise by the employer to pay certain amounts at designated future dates, usually including a period after retirement, upon compliance with stipulated requirements. This type of arrangement is distinguished from broader based employee benefit plans as it is usually tailored to the employee. Disclosure also typically includes the amount of related compensation expense recognized during the reporting period, the number of shares (units) issued during the period under such arrangements, and the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the related liability.

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