What is the process of having artwork appraised?

The first step is examining and photographing the artwork in person. This may be done in your home or our office. The next step is research -- identifying comparable sales from market sources, including public auction and private sales, where appropriate. Once research is complete, the report is written.

What does an Appraisal report include?

An Appraisal report includes a description of the artwork with color photographs, the type of value, the purpose of the Appraisal, and a value conclusion with commentary describing the research and market sources on which the value conclusion is based.

 

How long does this process take?

For a single artwork or small collection, this process typically takes three to four weeks. Larger collections may take several months. If you have a particular time frame, let us know.

How much does an Appraisal cost?

The base fee for an Appraisal of a single artwork is $240. Appraisal fees are bid on a per-project basis, depending on the number of artworks and scope of work.

How long is an Appraisal current?

It depends on the market for the particular artist. It is generally a good idea to reevaluate an Appraisal after three to five years. For donation, an Appraisal must be made no sooner than 30 days before the date of gift.

Can you appraise artwork from a photograph?

It is always best to personally inspect artwork. However, there are some circumstances in which this is not possible, and an evaluation may be made based on photographs and documentation. Please contact us to discuss your particular situation. 

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