Each player chooses a player board and, based on the icon on the back of the board, receives:

the respective 2 score markers,

and the 20 bid cards.

Each player places their markers next to the museum board and keeps the 20 bid cards in their hand.

Shuffle the starting paintings (marked with a gold back and a star) and deal 1 to each player.

Players place their starting painting face up on their gallery, such that it covers one or both star spaces in the center.

Set aside every remaining starting painting. They won't be needed for the game.

Shuffle the 4 starting bid cards (white cards marked with a star) and deal 1 face up in front of each player.

Set aside the remaining ones.

The player with the lowest bid card takes the gavel and becomes the first Auctioneer.

Give each player one player aid.