Why is provenance important when buying art?

When you’re paying a high price for a valuable piece of art, it’s important to know that what you’re buying is 100% authentic.  There are many ways to check if an artwork is authentic or not.  There’s the consistency of the age of the frame, the signature on the artwork, and of course, proper documentation.  When it comes to documentation, art aficionados and auctioneers make sure that customers receive provenance when buying authentic art.  But what is provenance and why is it so important?

Provenance is a document that authenticates a piece of art.  It comes from the French word provenir meaning to come from. It shows the ownership history of the piece of art.

Of course, like most documentation, provenance can be falsified.  This is why it’s important to know the forms in which provenance can take.  It can be a signed statement of authenticity from the artist or an expert affiliated with the artist, it can also be a sales receipt from the artist or an appraiser.

Regardless if the artwork has provenance, buyers should still be wary about purchasing the item if the seller isn’t a proper appraiser.  Examine the provenance carefully and try to check details that are available like previous owners of the piece.

Buyers should also keep in mind that appraisal is not considered as provenance.  Unless the appraiser you are dealing with is an expert in the specific era of the art piece, do not take their word for the value of the piece.

Sadigh Gallery in New York City specializes in the handling and selling of ancient art, artifacts, and coins from all over the world. The family-owned business handles each interaction with their customers with utmost importance. For more information about their services, visit this website.