Common Questions

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Q: What is a professional fine art appraisal?

A: A professional appraisal is a research-based valuation prepared for a specific intended use, such as insurance, estate planning, charitable contribution, collection management, or financial review. Formal appraisal work is conducted in accordance with applicable professional standards and valuation methodology.

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Q: Is a professional appraisal the same as an informal opinion or verbal estimate?

A: No. Professional appraisal conclusions are not casually delivered opinions or informal verbal estimates. Forma valuation work requires research, market analysis, documentation review, and professional judgment appropriate to the assignment.

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Q: Why is preliminary review billable?

A: Preliminary review and research are necessary in order to determine assignment scope, identify valuation considerations, review available documentation, and assess whether a formal appraisal engagement is appropriate.

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Q: What materials are typically needed before an appraisal begins?

A: Materials may include photographs, dimensions, provenance documentation, invoices, certificates, exhibition history, condition information, and any prior valuation records relevant to the assignment.

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Q: What photographs should I provide before requesting an appraisal?

A: Clear photographs are one of the most helpful parts of a preliminary review. Whenever possible, include:

• One overall image of the artwork or object

• Close-up photographs of signatures, inscriptions, labels, or maker's marks

• Images of the front and back (when applicable)

• Photographs of any condition issues, repairs, or damage

• A ruler or another object for scale if dimensions are unknown

High-resolution photographs are preferred, but if you are unsure what to provide, simply send what you have. We can advise you on whether additional images are needed.

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Q: I don't have complete documentation. Can I still request an appraisal?

A: Yes. Missing documentation is more than many people expect, particularly for inherited collections, long-held artworks, or collections assembled over many years.

While original invoices, certificates, provenance records, or previous appraisal reports are always helpful, they are not required to begin a preliminary review. We can assess the materials currently available, identify any important gaps, and advise what additional documentation - if any - may beneficial before proceeding with a formal appraisal.

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Q: I'm not sure whether I need a formal appraisal. Where should I start?

A: You don't need to determine the appropriate service before contacting us.

Every collection, ownership history, and intended use if different. A brief initial conversation can often clarify your objectives, review any available photographs or documentation, and determine whether a formal USPAP-compliant appraisal, a preliminary review, collection documentation, or another level of professional assistance would be most appropriate.

If you are unsure where to begin, that's perfectly normal. Starting with a conversation is often the most practical first step. 

 

Still not sure where to begin?

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Q: Can attribution, provenance, or classification issues affect value?

A: Yes. Attribution, provenance, authenticity, condition, rarity, market category, and historical context may materially affect valuation conclusions. In some cases, addtional research or specialist consultation may be necessary before a valuation can be completed.

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Q: Are appraisal reports confidential?

A: Yes, Appraisal assignments are handled with professional discretion and confidentiality. Client information and supporting documentation are not disclosed without authorization unless required by law or by the intended use of the assignment.

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Q: Do you work with attorneys, fiduciaries, CPAs, and institutions?

A: Yes. Appraisal services may be prepared in coordination with attorneys, fiduciaries, accountants, insurers, collection managers, and institutional professionals depending on the intended use of the assignment.

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Q: Do you work internationally or with cross-border collections?

A: Yes. Cross-border assignments may involve multilingual research, international provenance review, foreign market analysis, and coordination involving collections held across multiple jurisdictions. Services are available in English, French, and Mandarin Chinese.