1. What is art authentication?
Art authentication is the process of verifying the legitimacy of an artwork, confirming that it was indeed created by the artist to whom it is attributed. This involves expert analysis and documentation. Where possible details of the work and its authenticity should be verified with the artist’s estate or studio. In some circumstances there are published records of an artist’s work, these are called catalogue raisonees. They usually are illustrated and have cataloguing details of works the artist has created, they are a highly useful tool for authentication.
2. Why is provenance important?
Provenance refers to the history of ownership of an artwork. It provides a documented history that can prove the authenticity and value of a piece. Provenance can also reveal an artwork's historical significance, its ownership history and past exhibitions or sales.
3. How does Calder Contemporary ensure the authenticity of artworks?
At Calder Contemporary, we work with reputable experts and use various methods such as artist archives, certificates of authenticity, and scientific analysis to verify the authenticity of artworks. Where possible or when in doubt we verify authenticity through the artist’s studio or in the case of prints through the publisher. Each piece is thoroughly vetted before being offered for sale.
4. What documentation accompanies a purchase?
Purchases from Calder Contemporary come with a certificate of authenticity, detailed provenance records, and any additional documentation relevant to the artwork's history and authenticity.
5. Can I verify the provenance of an artwork myself?
While we provide comprehensive provenance documentation, we encourage buyers to conduct their own research and consult with independent experts if they wish to further verify an artwork's history.
6. What should I do if I doubt the authenticity of an artwork I purchased?
If you have any concerns about the authenticity of an artwork purchased from us, please contact us immediately. We are committed to resolving such issues and ensuring customer satisfaction. We provide a lifetime guarantee of authenticity (subject to our terms), where it can be demonstrated that a work we have sold is not authentic we will give a full refund plus any reasonably incurred costs.
7. Does Calder Contemporary offer appraisals or valuations?
Yes, we offer appraisal services to assess the value of artworks, considering factors like authenticity, provenance, and market demand.
8. How does Calder Contemporary handle artworks with incomplete provenance?
In cases where provenance is incomplete, we disclose all available information and work with experts to provide as much context as possible. We prioritize transparency and integrity in all our sales. It is fairly common that older works have broken provenance, this does not mean it can’t be authenticated, it just reuquires a little more work. Usually if a work can be traced back to a reputable sale or auction house, this makes the process a little easier.
9. Can I sell my artwork through Calder Contemporary?
Absolutely. We assist clients in selling artworks by providing authentication, valuation, and marketing services to reach potential buyers.
10. Who should I contact for more information on authentication and provenance?
For further inquiries, please reach out to our team via email or phone. We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns.