In an absolute auction, when can an article or lot be withdrawn?

In an absolute auction, the defining characteristic is that the property will be sold to the highest bidder without any minimum price or reserve set by the seller. This means that once the auction begins, there is a commitment to sell the item regardless of the bid amount.

However, if no bids are made within a reasonable time frame, it allows for a scenario where the auctioneer may need to consider withdrawing the item to maintain the flow of the auction and ensure it remains engaging and productive. This situation reflects the practical considerations that govern the conduct of auctions.

The other options suggest circumstances that do not align with the fundamental principle of absolute auctions. For example, asserting that an item can be withdrawn when the auctioneer decides would undermine the commitment to sell. Similarly, allowing withdrawal at the buyer's request or at any time would contradict the essence of an absolute auction's requirement to sell without reservation. Thus, the correct understanding hinges on the ability to withdraw an item if there is an absence of bids for a reasonable duration, facilitating a smooth auction process.