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Art Evaluation Sources

Where to Find Information About Value

Where to Find Information on Evaluating Fine Art and Crafts

If you have recently acquired an original work of art, you may wonder how to determine its value.

Evaluating fine art and craft items is difficult for even seasoned professionals, particularly if the artist is relatively unknown.

It is nearly impossible for an inexperienced collector to accurately judge value on his or her own. Fortunately, there are numerous resources to assist you in your search.

Online Resources

The internet has become a valuable resource for preliminary research in nearly every field, and art is no exception.

There are numerous online encyclopedias dedicated to cataloging artists from every era up to and including today.

Many art dealers now have websites as well, allowing you to search for other pieces of the artist’s work that may have sold or are currently on the market.

Online searching can also help you to find similar works by other artists. This can give you a feel for the current market and help you begin to identify the going rate for similar items.

Keep in mind, however, that the artist’s name can significantly affect the price of an item. If the artist in question is unknown, his or her work will likely draw a much lower price than that of a similar item by a well-known artist.

Working With an Appraiser

At some point, you are likely to require a professional appraisal of your artwork.

There are different types of appraisals, so be sure to select the one that best meets your needs. If you are not planning to sell or insure the piece, and it is not high-priced enough to warrant a tax appraisal, then you may find that an assessment is sufficient.

An assessment is a short-form, perhaps verbal, unofficial evaluation of a piece of fine art. You may be able to find a free assessment from any of several resources.

Many auction houses and art dealers are willing to give free basic assessments of fine art pieces based on photographs.

Some appraisers also donate their time on certain days of the week or month.

To find a reputable assessor or appraiser, check with the professional appraisers’ associations. The American Society of Appraisers, the Appraisers Association of America and the International Society of Appraisers can all provide references to qualified appraisers in your area.

A full appraisal will cost money, but is the best solution for those who plan to insure or sell a particular piece.

A dealer may also appraise an item that you are considering selling, but keep in mind the dealer’s priorities. He or she will want to obtain the item for the lowest possible price and then resell it for the highest amount possible.

A written appraisal from an independent appraiser can help you to receive the best price from a dealer.

The Bottom Line

In order to accurately estimate the value of an item, you will need to involve professionals.

If you are interested merely in determining a possible price range, you may be able to research this on your own.

Online research is a wonderful place to start. After an exhaustive search, you will be better able to decide whether you need assistance and, if so, what type of assistance you need.

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