Collector Commentary

Fine art and antique appraisal is a complex and multi-faceted profession that requires a deep understanding of both the art market and the history of art and design. In these articles, we dive into the world of art and antique appraisal, exploring the intricacies of valuing works of art while examining the historical and market influences that shape their worth.

  • Here you will find our favorite articles that will answer all your questions about antique and art appraisal.

  • Here we explore the fascinating world of the art market. From soaring auction prices to emerging artists, stay up-to-date with the latest trends and insights in this ever-evolving industry.

  • Join us on a journey through time as we explore the rich and diverse history of art and design. From prehistoric cave paintings to modern masterpieces, discover the stories and influences behind some of the greatest works of art in human history.

Analyzing Ariel: Mermaid Imagery through the Ages
Art History, Literature, Women in Art Madison Kelley Art History, Literature, Women in Art Madison Kelley

Analyzing Ariel: Mermaid Imagery through the Ages

Mermaid mythos has infiltrated our curious minds for centuries, whether in more palatable forms like Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” or the more sinister Hans Christian Andersen story ending in tragedy. Capturing the imaginations of artists and audiences alike, the mermaid has experienced a variety of depictions and evolutions in visual culture across time, often mimicking the ever-changing perception of women in society.

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7 Art Films You Might Have Missed
Art History, Film, Art Crime, Repatriation Madison Kelley Art History, Film, Art Crime, Repatriation Madison Kelley

7 Art Films You Might Have Missed

As an art history lover, it’s likely you’ve already seen The Thomas Crowne Affair, Frida, Girl with a Pearl Earring, and more, but filmmakers in recent years have become interested in both revealing the more secretive aspects of the art world as well as seamlessly incorporating art into films with other themes. Normalizing issues of art crime, female representation, and highlighting the unconventional is compelling to audiences, and often contributes to a sense of realism within other stories.

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Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Under Attack
Cultural Heritage, Ukraine, Art Crime Madison Kelley Cultural Heritage, Ukraine, Art Crime Madison Kelley

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Under Attack

Ukraine’s Kherson regional history museum has been pillaged by Russian civilian and military forces under orders that intentionally rob Ukrainians of their cultural heritage. Known to have one of the most impressive and sizable collections of its kind, the Kherson museum contained precious objects spanning Ukraine’s history which Russian forces have systematically looted.

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Glass Onion
Glass Onion, Film, Satire Madison Kelley Glass Onion, Film, Satire Madison Kelley

Glass Onion

f you saw Glass Onion’s Netflix premiere last week (spoilers ahead!), you may have picked up on the intentional yet subtle characterization of genius billionaire Miles Bron through the decorative aspects of his mansion, gardens, and more interestingly, the art he collects. A particularly biting and appropriate satire exposing the reality behind some tech geniuses, Glass Onion cleverly touches upon an issue that often affects the contemporary art world.

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The Rise and Fall of Connoisseurship
Connoisseurship, Authentication, Art History Madison Kelley Connoisseurship, Authentication, Art History Madison Kelley

The Rise and Fall of Connoisseurship

The notion of a connoisseur having “discriminating taste” is perhaps the most concise way to identify why the practice provides necessary expertise, yet creates suspicion in its blind faith approach. An experienced professional knows that relying on a team of experts often yields the best results, as perhaps the practice of connoisseurship is not as useful in isolation as it was in the past.

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Surrealist Icons
Surrealism, Women in Art, Art History Madison Kelley Surrealism, Women in Art, Art History Madison Kelley

Surrealist Icons

Last month, Hindman’s auction ‘Casting Spells: The Gertrude Abercrombie Collection of Laura and Gary Maurer’ saw Abercrombie’s achieve record highs for the artist, suggesting collectors and other art players pay close attention to female surrealism, both of the past and presently. Abercrombie’s 1953 Self and Cat (Possims) sold through Hindman in 2003, going well beyond its estimate of $5,000-7,000, selling at $20,060. Last Wednesday, the same self portrait sold for $375,000. Other works in Abercrombie’s oeuvre reveal a similar allure, with familiar subjects like doors, shells, and animals fetching record-setting numbers as well.

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