2torial #0840:
Learn2 Check the Value of a Painting (continued)

Understand what's being appraised

Knowing what the appraiser will look for is key to understanding the pricing process. Here are some factors that are universal in the art world.

Subject matter. If the painter is principally known for painting abstracts, for example, and your painting is of tigers, the value of the work may be affected.

Age. How old a painting is could affect its market value. Sometimes work from a certain period is considered more valuable than work from other periods.

Rarity. Uniqueness could make the painting more valuable. It could also have the opposite effect, though, if the appraiser determines there is no market because of its rarity.

Size. A painting could be considered too large. It might have been painted to fit in a castle or a museum, not an apartment or house. This could affect the market value.

Condition. Marks, tears, chips, or any other damage could change the market value.

History. What's the story behind the work? How far has the painting traveled? Who were the previous owners?

Fashionability. Some years, one style, color, or artist, may be in vogue. This changes constantly, and is taken into consideration.

Artist's markings. If your painting is signed and dated by the painter, this may influence its value. Any distinguishing marks on the reverse side could also affect the appraisal.