Whether it's an inheritance from a grandparent, a sculpture, a painting, ceramics or any other work of art, you may want to buy it, you may want to auction off the one you have, or you may just want to have an art appraisal to find out the value of your belongings but putting a price on it is quite difficult for you. Estimating the value of an object, although a complex task, is nevertheless essential before carrying out any transaction.
What's an art appraisal? What's a work of art appraisal?
An artwork estimate is not an exact figure, but an approximate price for a sale or purchase. Only an art expert can estimate the exact value of a work of art. Currently, making an online estimate is a quick, convenient and free solution suitable for all types of property. Especially since the sites that offer this type of service are flourishing on the web, there will be the embarrassment of choice but they all operate in almost the same way. You will be able to ask for an estimate on several sites, which is highly recommended so that you have a clearer idea of the figure. These may not display the same prices but will give approximate figures and allow you to set a margin. The response time may also vary from one site to another.
What to provide for a good expertise?
For an art expert to be able to give a price to a work of art, he should be provided with all the essential information about it, which will also be accompanied by a photo. Thus, it is first necessary to specify the nature of the work of art: whether it is a painting, a pottery, a trinket... because there may be experts specialized for a particular type of work. Then, the dimensions and the material of manufacture must be described: is it a work in print or a canvas painted with oil paint? What are its dimensions? In addition to this, the relative period of its creation and its country of origin must be taken into account: ceramics from a certain imperial period in such a country for example. The condition of the work and its difficulty of conservation and restoration are also to be noted, and above all, the fame of the artist and its market value at the time will greatly affect the value of the work in question. In short, all the details count and are important to be able to set the fairest price.
Other ways to estimate the value of a work of art
However, there are other ways of estimating a work of art without having to resort to a virtual expert. Indeed, it is possible to search for a piece similar to your valuable object that already displays a price, this piece will therefore serve as a reference. Online auctions are also a means of reference since all items are presented with an estimation range. However, it is possible that this range may be exceeded, because one should not forget the concept of these types of sales: it is the highest bidder who wins, the value of the item can then be overestimated. However, before anything else, it would be wise to consult an art expert or an antique dealer to ensure the authenticity of the object in question. This will save both the buyer and the seller from wasting time.
Although online consultations are convenient, one must be very careful of the swindlers who are also swarming on the Internet. Some people may publish pale copies, or clichés that may conceal the real condition of the item. So pay attention to the details, and if you are the overly suspicious type, seek the advice of an auctioneer. After all, nothing beats the expertise of someone who is certainly qualified.
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