Joseph Hershenson was educated at Harvard University (A.B. magna cum laude in History of Art, Phi Beta Kappa) and Stanford Law School (J.D.).

Joseph brings a unique constellation of skills to each client engagement:

Art Historical Knowledge — Joseph’s education and curatorial experience enable the firm to evaluate clients’ art holdings and advise on new acquisitions.

Market Expertise — Joseph’s decades spent negotiating with U.S. and foreign museums, auction houses, art dealers, and insurance and logistics companies give the firm the breadth of understanding necessary to execute on the full range of client needs.

Legal Experience — Joseph’s work as an attorney leading complex business transactions is the foundation for the firm’s rigorous and uncompromising professionalism.

While at the National Gallery of Art, Joseph worked on the organization of international loan exhibitions and the acquisition of Old Master paintings. As a visiting scholar at UNIDROIT in Rome, he advised on the Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects, an international agreement that has had a significant impact on cross-border art transactions.

Over the last 30 years Joseph has built collections based on connoisseurship and an appreciation of art market opportunities. His personal holdings run the gamut from 9th century Indian sculpture to 20th century avant-garde photography. Joseph has been involved with California cultural institutions where he has served on boards and special committees.