Art galleries and museums often call in an expert before exhibiting their works. Moreover, these experts play an important role in the success of an exhibition. Antique dealers, collectors, courts and customs can also call on them. What exactly are their missions? Find out the answers to this question in this article.
Appraising works of art
The first mission of a work of art expert is to estimate the value of a work of art. Paintings, drawings, sculptures, prints or even photographs, these works must all go through this stage. The expert will use certain materials that will enable him to discover the imperfections of the object. This will be done in order to determine possible falsifications and restorations that have already been carried out. The operations to be carried out if the work needs to be repaired will also depend on this estimate. An expert has the necessary knowledge to be able to consider a work at its fair value. In this way, it will be easier to set the price of the work in the case of a sale.
Checking the authenticity of a work of art
Origin, nature, technique, date, author and state of conservation, all this information is verified by the art expert. He carries out all the checks to certify that the work is authentic, i.e. to prove that a work is not a counterfeit. The same applies to the meaning of the work in question. He may also carry out additional research, for example by using several sales catalogues and several catalogues raisonnés. The general descriptions of the works are cited in these catalogues, so all that remains to be done is to check their veracity. Also, if the research is not sufficient, investigations into the origin of the work will be carried out. If it is a painting or a photograph, the expert will investigate the history and experience of the artist.
List all the information on a work of art
Recording data is still the best way to prove that the expert is well organised. This saves time and energy when searching for information. Art is no exception to this rule. This is why an artwork expert draws up files containing all the information about a work after having authenticated it. The expert makes sure that the person calling on him has all the details he will need. This information is essential for the smooth running of an exhibition. It will serve as a tool and guide for museums and art galleries. It can also be used as an archive to preserve the descriptions of the work forever. It is therefore a very noble mission because the written word remains.
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