You've found some art in the attic and you want to know what it's worth. Hire a professional appraiser for a bona-fide appraisal of your art. Accredited appraisers have a strong background in art history, they understand the current market and art auctions, and know use research tools for an effective evaluation of your art. Visit an online professional appraiser for a quick answer to the piece of art's value.
Instructions
1. Determine what kind of appraisal you need. Whether your purpose is insurance, estate, charitable donation, liquidation or equitable distribution, the value the appraiser gives you depends on the type of appraisal. An insurance appraisal states the current retail replacement value whereas one for a charitable donation gives the fair market value.
2. Contact one of the following organizations to locate a credentialed appraiser: Appraisers Association of America, International Fine Art Appraisers, American Society of Certified Appraisers or Art Dealers Association of America.
3. Submit good photographs or color transparencies and a description of the work including markings. Some appraisers can work from digital photos.
4. Expect to receive documentation of your work of art and estimated value. Look for a detailed description including size, condition, markings, medium, year work was created and provenance (history of ownership).
5. Anticipate a biography of the artist as well as auction records. A complete appraisal contains these items.
6. Take your work directly to an appraiser or have him visit you at your home for more accurate and reliable results than what you can get from an online estimate. Though you can get a good estimate via online appraisals, to get a better valuation, it's best if the appraiser can physically see the piece to check for flaws or damage, which greatly affects the final worth.
