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.

How to Find a Good Art Appraiser: The Crucial Role of Professional Appraisal Organizations
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

How to Find a Good Art Appraiser: The Crucial Role of Professional Appraisal Organizations

In the art world, valuations and appraisals are cornerstones of professionalism that safeguard accuracy, integrity, and ethical standards. Selecting a qualified art appraiser is essential to ensuring that your collection is appropriately valued for insurance, investing, and estate planning purposes. Within the art appraisal industry, The Appraisal Foundation is the only congressionally authorized organization to be the source of appraisal standards and appraiser qualifications. Partnering with The Appraisal Foundation, at the nucleus of this framework for promoting public trust, stand three eminent organizations: The International Society of Appraisers (ISA), The Appraisers Association of America (AAA), and The American Society of Appraisers (ASA). In this article, we delve into the significance of these organizations, their profound contributions to the field, and why they are indispensable pillars of the appraisal industry.

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Women Artists at The Art Institute of Chicago
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Women Artists at The Art Institute of Chicago

A study in 2019 found that 87% of artists at major US museums are male. Five years later, it’s still not looking great. Women artists are still wildly underrepresented in major institutions.

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Discover the True Worth of Your Art: How to Find Reliable Artwork Appraisal Near You
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Discover the True Worth of Your Art: How to Find Reliable Artwork Appraisal Near You

Embarking on the journey of selling or insuring artwork can be a complex experience, particularly when it comes to determining its true worth. Discovering a reliable artwork appraisal near you is not just beneficial; it's essential for artists looking to set fair prices and collectors safeguarding their investments. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of uncovering the true worth of your art. We'll explore the profound importance of reliable appraisals, the factors that influence artwork value, and step-by-step instructions to find reputable appraisers in your area.

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How much does it cost to get art appraised?
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

How much does it cost to get art appraised?

Art appraisal costs depend largely on three factors: the intended use of the appraisal, the type of art being appraised, and the number of pieces being appraised. While some appraisers may charge a flat fee, many appraisers charge an hourly rate. Fine art appraisers typically have advanced degrees, professional certifications, and continuing education requirements— so you should expect that hourly rates are generally in line with other professional service rates in your area, such as CPAs or lawyers. Art appraisers may adjust their hourly rate depending on the scope of the appraisal assignment, but on average you should expect to pay between $150-$500 per hour for a USPAP-compliant art appraisal. The set hourly rates depend on the appraiser’s experience, location, and specializations and an art appraiser's fees should never be based on a percentage of the value of the artwork.

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Chicago Resale Resources
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Chicago Resale Resources

For individuals looking simply to sell their artwork, you may not require a formal appraisal. In these cases, we are happy to connect you with a list of local resources who can assist with selling your collection. Many auction houses will provide complimentary auction estimates for potential consignors who like to make informed decisions. We recommend reviewing the websites linked below to determine who will be the best fit for your priorities.

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Identifying Art at a Glance: How Can You Tell if Art is Original

Identifying Art at a Glance: How Can You Tell if Art is Original

Getting your work appraised may seem like a complicated process, but it is much easier than you think to determine your appraisal needs. This article will help you identify mediums, artist signatures, gallery labels, and any other identifying information that could answer your questions and determine whether or not you need a USPAP compliant appraiser to step in. 

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From Paintings to Sculptures: The Art of Appraising Fine Art
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

From Paintings to Sculptures: The Art of Appraising Fine Art

Appraising fine art is a crucial step in the art market. Whether you are an artist, collector, or investor, understanding the value of a piece can help you make informed decisions. Appraisals provide an objective assessment of an artwork's worth, taking into account factors such as artistic merit, historical significance, and market demand. Without proper appraisal, it's difficult to determine the fair price of a piece, leading to potential financial losses or missed opportunities.

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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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Unveiling the Craft: Exploring the Role of an Art Appraiser
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Unveiling the Craft: Exploring the Role of an Art Appraiser

Step into the captivating world of art appraisal, where expertise and insight converge to unveil the intrinsic value of artistic mastery. As art continues to transcend boundaries, the role of an art appraiser becomes increasingly vital. Beyond just assessing market value, art appraisers serve as custodians of culture, deciphering the nuances that make each piece a timeless expression.

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Decoding the Worth: Navigating the World of Fine Art Appraisals
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Decoding the Worth: Navigating the World of Fine Art Appraisals

Navigating the intriguing world of fine art appraisals can be both exhilarating and confounding. From the enchanting stroke of the brush to the mesmerizing play of colors, each stroke and hue holds a story, a history, and a value. Understanding the worth of a piece of fine art goes beyond its aesthetic appeal; it delves into an intricate web of historical context, provenance, artist's legacy, and market demand. In this article, we embark on a journey to decode the mystery of fine art appraisals, unraveling the nuances, methodologies, and key factors that contribute to determining the value of fine art pieces. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a collector, or a professional in the art industry, this guide aims to demystify the appraisal process, providing insights that can empower you to make informed decisions.

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Unlocking the Value: How Artwork Appraisers Near Me Elevate the Art Market
Lindsey Owen Lindsey Owen

Unlocking the Value: How Artwork Appraisers Near Me Elevate the Art Market

Are you an enthusiast looking to assess the worth of an artwork? Artwork appraisers are the compasses guiding both seasoned collectors and new buyers through the labyrinth of valuing art. Unravel the mystery behind the value of art with the expert eye of artwork appraisers located in your vicinity.

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10 Bananas Thrift Store Finds
Art News, Collecting Antiques, Art Collecting Madison Kelley Art News, Collecting Antiques, Art Collecting Madison Kelley

10 Bananas Thrift Store Finds

Although rare, high value objects at the thrift store are not necessarily impossible to find. It typically takes a keen eye to recognize an object that seems out of place, a concept that has captured the imagination of Goodwill-goers for decades. The idea that your local thrift store may be hiding hidden treasure may seem far-fetched, but it likely did to these 10 lucky buyers of overlooked art historical gems as well:

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Exploring the Riches of Visual Arts in Kentucky: A Conversation with Patrick Smith
Visual Art, Artist Profile, Kentucky, Interview Madison Kelley Visual Art, Artist Profile, Kentucky, Interview Madison Kelley

Exploring the Riches of Visual Arts in Kentucky: A Conversation with Patrick Smith

When discussing emerging artists, there are a number of blockbuster artists that captivate media attention. However, this series aims to highlight visual artists working in Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois to showcase their work and philosophies and bring attention to the rich environments where the arts flourish in our region. In this post we are pleased to feature the work of Patrick Smith.

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A Complete Guide to Obtaining a Fine Art Insurance Appraisal

A Complete Guide to Obtaining a Fine Art Insurance Appraisal

Whether you're an art collector or simply looking to insure a piece of artwork, obtaining an art appraisal for insurance is crucial. A professional art appraiser will accurately assess the value of your artwork and provide an important document for your insurance policy. Learn about the process and find out how to get an accurate appraisal here.

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