No. 06 Opinion of Value
What is my painting worth?
It’s the most common question I’m asked — and often photographs are enough for a preliminary opinion. Send images of the front, back, signature, and any labels to linda@fineartsappraiser.com, and I’ll tell you what you have, what it may be worth, and whether a formal appraisal makes sense. A formal appraisal is an opinion of value for a stated purpose — not a certificate of authenticity. I consult catalogue raisonnés and artist foundations to see whether a work is recognized in the artist’s oeuvre, and I state that basis clearly.
Send my painting
Four photos are enough to start: front, back, signature, and any labels.
The Process
How it works
01
Send photos
You send photos and anything you know about the work.
02
I review
I review and respond with a preliminary opinion.
03
We scope, if worth it
If the value warrants it, we scope a certified appraisal — with the preliminary fee credited.
Plate VI — Reading the verso
Common Questions
Common questions
Q — 01
Is a preliminary opinion the same as an appraisal?
No — it's an informal professional opinion to guide your next step. Insurance, the IRS, and courts require a certified USPAP-compliant report.
Q — 02
What photos do you need?
Front straight-on in daylight, the back, the signature close-up, and any labels or stamps on frame or stretcher. Phone photos are fine.
Q — 03
What if it turns out to be worth little?
Then you'll know — for the cost of a brief review, not a full report. Most people value the certainty either way.