-
Can We Just Divide Art Among Family Members Without An Appraisal?
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.…
-
Old Artwork Does NOT Always Mean More Valuable!
Written by Rachel Christophe Baker, Fine Art Appraiser, Veritas Fine Art Appraisals & Consulting Group Age alone does not determine the value of a work of art. Yes, an Old Master holds the public-auction record: Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi sold for $450.3 million in 2017. But major modern and contemporary works have also reached extraordinary prices,…
-
My Mother Passed and Left a Large Art Collection. Where Do I Even Begin?
Losing a parent is hard enough. Inheriting a large art collection at the same time can feel completely overwhelming — especially when you’re not sure what you have, what it’s worth, or what the rules are. The single most important first step is a complete inventory and appraisal of the collection. This establishes fair market…
-
The Current Old Masters Market
It helps to have a Michelangelo in the mix, but the Old Masters market is on fire! While contemporary art often grabs the headlines, this year’s auction data tells a compelling story about renewed interest in Old Master works. Several standout sales at major auction houses have dramatically outperformed expectations, including: • A Michelangelo study…
-
Are You (Or Your Clients) ‘Accidental Collectors?’
I am sure I’m not responsible for coining this term… BUT – each week, we uncover what I call “accidental collectors” – clients who suddenly realize their closets, safes, and storage units now hold real portfolio value in handbags, watches, sneakers, and memorabilia, to name a few common collectibles. These “lifestyle” pieces often sit under…
-
Is My Property Covered When Lending It Out?
I’m lending a painting to a museum. Is it covered under my personal policy? Lending a work to a museum or institution is a meaningful gesture – and one that comes with important logistics that are easy to overlook. Many personal art policies either exclude works on loan entirely or require advance written notice to…
-
When “Old” and “Famous” Don’t Mean “Valuable”
A Beginner’s Guide to Musical Instrument Value by Dr. Matthew Hill, Specialist, Musical Instruments People often think of musical instruments and their value the way they think of art, wine, or rare coins: something beautiful to own that might also grow in value over time. That can happen, and there are famous cases—a pre-war Martin…
-
Collections Management 101 – Why Every Collection Needs a Digital Inventory
-
Your Values May Be Outdated
Most collectors don’t realize their values are outdated until they need them. A work that was appraised fifteen, ten, or even five years ago may no longer reflect the current market. Auction results, private sale activity, artist demand, condition changes, attribution updates, and broader collecting trends can all affect value over time. This matters most…
-
Condition Always Matters!
And nowhere is that more obvious than in Warhol’s prints. Here’s something I find fascinating (and honestly a little alarming if you own one): color can make or break the value of a Warhol by 50% or more! Let’s talk about the 1967 Marilyn Monroe portfolio (F. & S. II.22-31). Ten screenprints. Iconic. Market-defining. And…
866-212-0142
inquiries@veritasartappraisals.com