Not every art appraisal requires an in-person inspection. Depending on the artwork, the purpose of the appraisal, and the documentation available, JSK Fine Art Appraisals can complete many assignments remotely for clients throughout California and across the United States.
Remote appraisal assignments are conducted using detailed photographs, dimensions, information about signatures and inscriptions, provenance, purchase history, prior appraisals, and other relevant documentation provided by the client. The appropriate market is then researched using comparable sales, auction records, gallery information, and other recognized art-market resources.
When Is a Remote Art Appraisal Appropriate?
A remote appraisal may be appropriate for:
- Resale and fair market value research
- Collection reviews and advisory services
- Preliminary valuation and market research
- Certain insurance appraisal assignments
- Updating information on previously documented artwork
- Clients located outside Southern California
Whether an appraisal can be completed remotely depends on the individual assignment. The intended use of the appraisal, the nature and value of the artwork, available documentation, and the requirements of any insurer, attorney, institution, or other intended user are all considered before determining the appropriate scope of work.
When Is an In-Person Inspection Recommended?
An in-person inspection may be necessary when physical examination of the artwork could materially affect the appraisal or when it is required by the intended user.
This may include situations where:
- Attribution or authenticity requires closer examination
- Condition has a significant impact on value
- Photographs or documentation are insufficient
- The artwork has a particularly high or complex market value
- An insurer, attorney, institution, or other intended user requires an inspection
If an in-person inspection is recommended, we will discuss that with you before beginning the assignment.
Remote Appraisal vs. Resale Guidance
A remote appraisal describes how an assignment is completed, while the purpose of the appraisal determines the type of value and research required.
For example, a client seeking guidance about selling artwork may complete a Resale Knowledge assignment remotely. An insurance appraisal may also be completed remotely in certain circumstances, while other insurance assignments may require an in-person inspection.
The first step is determining what you need the appraisal for. From there, we can recommend the appropriate type of appraisal and whether the assignment can be completed remotely.
What You Will Need to Provide
For most remote assignments, we will ask for:
- Clear photographs of the front and back of each artwork
- Close-up photographs of signatures, inscriptions, labels, stamps, or markings
- Dimensions of the artwork and frame
- Artist information, if known
- Purchase records or previous appraisal reports
- Provenance or ownership history, when available
- Any relevant certificates, receipts, exhibition history, or supporting documentation
Additional information may be requested depending on the artwork and the purpose of the appraisal.
Start a Remote Art Appraisal
If you are unsure whether your artwork can be appraised remotely, send us a few photographs and a brief description of what you need the appraisal for.
We can review the information and recommend the most appropriate next step, whether that is a remote appraisal, an in-person inspection, or a preliminary consultation.