Verifying the originality of a painting

Why Original Art Matters

Owning an original piece of art is special - it has an aura surrounding it knowing the artist themselves conceived the idea and did the physical work. Original paintings or other mediums typically increase in value over time too if the artist succeeds. Some masters sell for millions! But buyers must confirm works are genuine originals, not fakes out for profit.

Understanding Certificate of Authenticity

A certificate of authenticity formally verifies that a specific artwork does come directly from the studio of the artist in question and has not been illegally forged or copied without consent. It will be signed and dated by the creator, detailing the work's title and creation year, medium, and dimensions while assigning it a unique catalog number.

Spotting Possible Fakes

Indicators of potential forgery include blurry or inconsistent signatures, misspellings of the artist's name, deviations in mediums or styles that diverge from the artist's known body of work, absence of documented previous sales, and suspiciously low prices. Engaging in meticulous due diligence, investigating provenance, examining the artwork's history, and verifying details against established records are crucial steps in identifying potential fakes. Any discrepancies or red flags should prompt further investigation or consultation with experts to ascertain authenticity.

Trusted Places to Buy Authentic Art

Opting for authenticity-certified original artworks is safest. Direct purchases from artists' studios ensure genuineness, while reputable galleries, with their meticulous vetting processes honed over years, offer assurance of authenticity. Major auction houses like Sotheby's meticulously authenticate each artwork before auction, providing a reliable source for purchasing original pieces with a guarantee of authenticity. These trusted sources not only offer genuine artwork but also provide certification that adds value and confidence to your purchase.

Verification Tips and Tricks

Independent Appraisal: Prioritize evaluation by an authorized, independent expert appraiser for authenticity verification.

Request Documentation: Obtain past appraisals or documentation related to the artwork's history and authenticity.

Identifying Marks: Verify all identifying marks or signatures on the artwork to confirm its authenticity.

Historical Alignment: Ensure that the mediums used in the artwork align with the historical context of the artist's creations.

Research Artist's Catalog: Study the artist's catalog to compare the style, medium, and details of the artwork in question.

Provenance Check: Verify the artwork's provenance and its chain of ownership to establish authenticity.

Conservation and Restoration History: Assess any conservation or restoration history, ensuring it aligns with the artwork's timeline and materials.

Consult Multiple Experts: Seek opinions from multiple reputable experts to validate authenticity and appraisals.

Examine Documentation: Scrutinize any available documentation, including certificates of authenticity or sale records.

Trustworthy Sources: Rely on reputable sources and provenance records to verify the artwork's authenticity and value.

Real-Life Authenticity Wins

In 2006 a $139 painting at a thrift shop was later verified as a genuine Jackson Pollock worth $10 million dollars. In 2020 a small drawing marked as an unknown German 19th century work sold for $30 before experts confirmed it as a lost Albrecht Dürer masterpiece valued at $46 million.

Securing Your Masterpiece

After acquiring your artwork, meticulously list and describe its details in your home inventory, highlighting its high value. Ensure proper insurance coverage by adding a specific rider to your home or collector's specialty art insurance policy. By taking these steps, you safeguard your investment against unforeseen events. Embrace the rarity of your original piece with the peace of mind that you've secured and protected this cherished asset for generations to come, allowing you to fully relish its beauty and significance.