Technically, yes — but it carries real risk.
Without a qualified appraisal establishing fair market value, there may be no objective way to know whether the division is actually equitable. And when artwork is part of an estate subject to tax reporting, unsupported or inaccurate values can create additional scrutiny and complications with the IRS.
Two paintings may look comparable in size, age, or importance to the family while having very different market values. One family member could unknowingly receive substantially more value than another.
A qualified appraisal provides an independent basis for understanding what each work is worth before the collection is divided. It can help support estate administration, create a clearer record for tax purposes, and reduce the potential for disagreements later.
The appraiser isn’t deciding who gets what. We’re providing the valuation information the family and its advisors need to make those decisions fairly and with confidence.
