Through the mist emitting from the halls that house the finest and most decorative works of art, an Appraiser emerges. To succeed in today’s competitive world of art appraisal, antiques, fine and decorative arts, one must acquire current specialized knowledge and practical hands-on experience in the fields of art and history.
An appraisal is an informed opinion of value (monetary, cultural, historical, etc.). Statements are validated upon expertise, experience, and educational background of the person providing it. Opinions and statements must be without coercion.
Utilizing hundreds of techniques, appraisers determine the value of selected pieces of art by painting their “authentic” seal of approval. Appraisers measure the value of fine art for the purposes of buying, selling, insuring, or to retain for their pleasure.
Listed are a few helpful hints to guide you while assessing a piece in your possession or at an auction.
- Observe the condition of the piece by looking for cracks, wear, or other possible contaminants.
- It could be shown as “good form” to acquire a second and possibly a third opinion at times to ensure accuracy.
- Be sure to acquire ALL of the proper documents in order to prove its authenticity.
- Use antique price guides for appraisals (a basic price list for common products).
- Antique appraisals based on sales records (actual sales records).
- Money Matters as seen on Comcast CN8 listed that the top five indicators that impact value include quality, condition, scholarship or publication record, exhibition record or public awareness, and provenance.
- Age and historic value are important but not on the top of the list.
- I reiterate QUALITY is important when it comes to fine art.
The bottom line is art appraisals are essential to the art world, history, and protecting your investments. Below I have chosen a few organizations within the appraisal industry including, A.S.A. (American Society of Appraisers), to further your education in the art of appraisal.
A.S.A. (American Society of Appraisers)
555 Herndon Parkway, Suite 125
Herndon, VA 20170
800.272.8258
Fine Arts Services
7334 Versailles Lane
Charlotte, NC 28277
704.752.4214
Mir Appraisal Services, Inc.
307 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 308
Chicago, Illinois 60601
312.814.8510
NYFAA (New York Fine Art Appraisers)
410 Park Avenue, Suite 1530
New York, NY 10022
212.772.0319
Art Appraisal Firm
Post Office Box 8904
Elkins Park, PA 19027
215.469.0010
I never art appraising could be so interesting.
ReplyDelete