How much is this artwork worth?

The conservation process can make an aged-looking artwork come back to life! A little clean before being re-framed can go a long way, or a refreshed coating to a sculpture can renew the life of it. When clients see their artworks after treatment, they are often taken aback at the visual difference. What was once maybe of little value suddenly becomes a work of art again. We are often asked, how much would I be able to sell this artwork for? Unfortunately, we can't offer advice in this area as we do not have training in artwork appraisal, but there are lots of resources to follow where you can get advice!

What Should You Know

Art appraisals are done by auction houses or independent valuers. In New Zealand, as there are in other countries, there is no national association or certification body for appraisers or art dealers to be recognised. Most valuations tend to be done by businesses and individuals with experience in this specialist area. However, a good starting point is to choose a business that is registered under the Auctioneers Act 2013 or the Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act 2004. A searchable list can be found on the MBIE website at: https://auctioneers.mbie.govt.nz/searching-the-auctioneer-register/. At the time of writing there were 178 individuals or companies that are registered, but not all can assist with artworks. Using a registered appraiser gives some accountability; however, the registration system only screens for those that have criminal convictions. It does require any formal training in valuations. So be sure to use a peer-recognised valuer! 

Providers

While we have not worked with these providers before, they are recognised in the art conservation discipline as being specialists:

• Art Valuations NZ: https://www.artvaluationsnz.com/about

• International Art Centre: https://www.internationalartcentre.co.nz/contact/estimate/

• Art + Object: https://artandobject.co.nz/valuations

• Independent Art Valuations Ltd: https://independentartvaluations.co.nz

• Webbs: https://www.webbs.co.nz/auction-estimate-request/

• Dunbar Sloane: www.dunbarsloane.com

Viewing the Artwork

Many will try to accommodate providing a valuation using images, but it may be the case that for higher value works that they will need to see it in person. If you do need to provide your artwork, we are happy to assist with packaging for transportation or provide art transportation!