When an item isn't as described from a large auction house?

[Bugsy]

Hey guys,

What would you do if you were in my situation? I paid over $500 hundred dollars for a 1910s display piece through a large auction house. The piece was in a crappy frame. When I went to take it to get it re-framed, it turns out the piece is completely taped down to a foam board. Scotch tape does not come off of paper and can actually cause staining after time. That staining will likely migrate through to the front side of the ad after a while. I suspect it would cost at least a few hundred to have addressed professionally. When I contacted the auction house, they said they would have their restorer do it for me at a discounted rate (completely at my expense) or they would waive their consignment fee if I wanted them to sell it for me. What recourse do I have? Large houses only take payments in the form of check or money order, so it isn't like I can contest the payment. What would you do?

Thanks.

Chris