The news that the chairman of Sotheby’s auction house Domenico De Sole was buying a dud of Mark Rothko has shocked the art world. In 2004, De Sole and his wife paid $8.3 million for Untitled, 1956, a work by the midcentury Abstract Expressionist Mark Rothko, seven years later they found out it was fake.
It is necessary to appraise artwork and trace its origins. Here, we provide collectors with tips on artwork appraisal and resource tracing.
Scientific techniques play a crucial role in art authentication. Common methods include:
Usually, to appraise an artwork will use scientific methods such as infrared imaging, carbon dating, pigment analysis, etc. to check that the materials used in the production of the artwork (e.g. paper, paint, canvas) are consistent with the date and place of production
Analysing the artist's signature involves examining its placement, style, and condition. Key aspects to consider include:
Date Listed on the Painting: Ensures it aligns with the artist’s timeline.
Types of Brush Strokes: Consistency with the artist’s known techniques.
Signature Style: Initials, full names, or case usage must match the artist's typical signature.
Colour Matching and Embellishments: Authentic signatures often feature unique colour blends and decorative details.
Misspellings: Genuine signatures rarely contain spelling errors.
Condition and Positioning: Authentic works have signatures in consistent positions and states of preservation.
Prints, though not forgeries, usually have a lower value compared to original artworks. To distinguish between an original painting and a print:
Light Test: Originals often allow some light through the canvas when held up to the light.
Print Numbers and Raised Brush Strokes: Originals will have texture and depth from brush strokes.
Visible Pencil Lines: May indicate a print rather than an original.
Spotting Clues About the Age
Authentic paintings often show signs of aging, such as:
Layering: Originals display multiple paint layers, providing depth and complexity.
Forger’s Methods: Look for grids, leftover material, anachronistic details, and modern canvases that might indicate forgery.
A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) is crucial but can be forged. Ensure its legitimacy by:
Details Verification: The COA should include comprehensive details about the artwork and the artist.
Issuer Contact: Verify the authenticity of the COA with the issuer.
Hiring a professional appraiser is essential. An experienced appraiser can provide an expert evaluation using the methods mentioned above, offering peace of mind and protection against fraud.
By following these guidelines and leveraging scientific methods, collectors can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing fake art and ensure their investments are authentic and valuable.
Collectors must adopt a multifaceted approach to verify the authenticity of artworks, employing scientific methods, signature analysis, and expert appraisals. By understanding the nuances of art authentication, from examining physical characteristics to verifying documentation, collectors can safeguard themselves against fraud. Following these steps will help ensure that your investments are genuine, preserving both the financial value and the cultural significance of your art collection.
Our sources are genuine and reliable, as we directly partner with artists and reputable third parties. Our professional team and art consultants ensure authenticity.
Due to the unique nature of art, if your work is significantly not as described, inauthentic, does not arrive, or arrives damaged, we will work with you to find the best resolution, including getting your money back. In some instances, a partial refund, restoration, or exchange may be the best resolution. LAC SHOP’s Guarantee covers transactions up to£100,000. For transactions over this amount, our team is still here to support you in finding the best resolution.
