Why are art dealers so suspicious and distrust brokers?
Art dealers may exhibit suspicion and distrust towards brokers for a variety of reasons. It’s important to note that not all art dealers hold these views, and individual experiences and perspectives can vary. However, here are some possible reasons for such skepticism. It’s important to remember that these are general observations, and not all art dealers hold the same views or exhibit the same level of skepticism towards brokers. Some brokers may be direct to the owner/seller of the artwork and not only connected in a “daisy-chain” network to other brokers. Trust and successful collaborations can still exist between dealers and brokers when there is clear communication, shared objectives, and…
How to Read the Secondary Art Market Without Getting Burned
A Short Collector’s Guide to Provenance, Price, and Pitfalls The secondary art market can feel like a labyrinth. For the seasoned collector, it’s a landscape rich with opportunity — and risk. Unlike buying directly from an artist or gallery, purchasing from the secondary market involves additional layers: historical value, legal clarity, and market psychology. Start with Provenance, Not Price A competitive price tag is meaningless without clear provenance. Can the seller trace ownership back to the artist or a credible dealer? Are exhibition records, publications, or previous auctions properly documented? These are not extras — they are non-negotiables. Rarity ≠ Quality A work might be rare because no one wanted…
How to Verify the Provenance of Russian Art
Due Diligence in a Market Rich with History—and Complexity The Russian art market is one of the most intriguing—and most carefully scrutinized—in the world. With masterpieces from artists like Malevich, Kandinsky, and Kljun commanding millions, provenance is not just a formality: it’s a necessity. So, how do seasoned collectors verify that a work is the real thing? 1. Start with Documentation, Not Assumptions A serious seller provides a chain of ownership. This includes previous auction records, gallery sales, exhibition catalogs, and references in scholarly publications. If the paperwork starts after 1990, be cautious—many fakes emerged during the Soviet art “rediscovery” wave. 2. Check for Expert Attributions and Catalogues Raisonnés Reputable…
What Makes a Painting Valuable to Collectors?
Understanding Rarity, Provenance, and Artistic Significance In the art world, value is rarely accidental. A painting’s worth emerges from a layered interplay of history, context, and perception — not just aesthetics. While taste is subjective, collectors who move with confidence typically understand five key drivers of value: 1. Artistic Significance Value begins with impact. Did the artist shift a movement, challenge convention, or redefine form? Consider Kandinsky’s early abstractions or Malevich’s Suprematist compositions — these works didn’t just reflect art history, they shaped it. 2. Rarity and Scarcity Scarcity enhances allure. Whether it’s a unique work or part of a limited series, the fewer there are, the more intense the…
Fine art’s market value
Why are original artworks so interesting for investors? Beside increasing in value, art can be used as collateral. What are the requirements and considerations? What are the characteristics of fine art that makes it a viable alternative security? Let’s analyze the appreciation of art in the course of time, because collecting and owning it can be compared to the stock market. When we examine the value of art in the context of current national and international economy, we draw lessons from the power of art in former economies and project what this may mean for the future. As a reader of Forbes you know what “market values” are. When wars or revolutions…
Forgeries of Modligiani
Amedeo Modigliani, renowned for his distinctive and emotive portraits, faces an escalating issue with art forgeries, which threatens to undermine the integrity of his artistic legacy. The problem is set to worsen as new technologies and an influx of amateur art dealers enter the market, complicating the authentication process. Modigliani’s unique style, characterized by elongated figures and expressive faces, has made his work a prime target for forgers. The high market value of his paintings, which can fetch millions at auction, provides a strong financial incentive for counterfeiting. This has led to a proliferation of forgeries that circulate in the art market, deceiving even experienced dealers and collectors. For instance,…
