Bond Street is a major shopping hub in West London. It has been an important location for shops since the 18th century, and has been the site of many luxury goods stores. During the late 18th and early 19th century Steven's Hotel played host to many important figures in London society, and the street was an influential center of the London social scene. The street faced some decline in social influence in the later 19th century, and no longer played host to as many esteemed guests. However, Bond Street remains associated with high-class retail to this day, and is the most expensive retail street in all of Europe. During the 20th century, Bond Street would have had shops boasting the latest in clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Bond Street was also famous for its art-dealers and antiques shops. Bond Street was home to the London branch of Sotheby's auction house, a famed broker of fine arts. Their Bond Street headquarters had an ancient Egyptian statue mounted over its entrance, which dated back to 1600 BCE. Also on Bond Street was the Fine Art Society, a notable art gallery founded in 1876. Overall, Bond Street was and is one of the most important centers for haute couture in London.