The art world is full of surprises, from rediscovered masterpieces to thrift store finds that turn out to be reproductions. But what happens when someone thinks they’ve found a lost work of art?
The Fantasy of the Lost Masterpiece and the Hard Realities of Art Authentication
The Reality Behind Thrift Store Finds
While some thrift store finds turn out to be valuable, most are misidentified, and authenticating them is anything but easy.
The Odds Are Not in Your Favor
You might think dumpster diving is a pretty profitable enterprise in the art market. Recent headlines suggest that finding a valuable artwork is not as rare as you’d think. However, these stories often come with a twist – most finds are misidentified or turn out to be reproductions rather than genuine masterpieces.
The Art Market: A World of Surprises
The art market is full of surprises, from the rediscovery of a lost Rembrandt painting in 2021 to the sale of a Mayan vase for $3.99 at a thrift shop in Maryland. These stories captivate us, but they also make us wonder – will I be next?
The art market has undergone significant changes throughout history.
From ancient civilizations to modern-day auction houses, the demand for art has remained constant.
In the 19th century, the rise of 'Impressionism' and 'Post-Impressionism' led to increased interest in contemporary art.
The 20th century saw the emergence of 'abstract expressionism' and 'pop art,' with artists like Warhol and Pollock becoming household names.
Today, the art market is a multibillion-dollar industry, with online platforms and social media playing a significant role in shaping consumer behavior.
The Challenges of Art Authentication
Art experts face numerous challenges when dealing with potentially valuable finds. They must sift through countless objects to find the rare diamonds in the rough. In some cases, the artwork is authentic, but it’s not worth anything.
How Experts Handle Valuable Finds
When people bring their finds to experts, they often expect a treasure trove of information. However, the process can be lengthy and costly. Art dealers and auction houses encourage people to submit images of their finds through online portals or email. Private dealers and galleries also welcome inquiries, provided the inquirer uses proper channels.
The Role of Catalogues Raisonnés
For renowned artists, catalogue raisonnés are a valuable resource for authentication. These annotated listings provide detailed information about an artist’s works, making it easier to verify their authenticity.
A catalogue raisonné is a comprehensive and authoritative publication that documents an artist's entire body of work.
It typically includes detailed information about each artwork, such as its title, date, medium, size, and location.
This resource helps art historians , curators, and collectors verify the authenticity and provenance of artworks.
Catalogue raisonnés are often considered the definitive reference for an artist's oeuvre.
Scientific Analysis: A Crucial Tool
Scientific analysis plays a crucial role in verifying the age and origin of artworks. Organizations like the McCrone Research Institute use advanced techniques to analyze paints, canvases, and other molecular elements of paintings.
The McCrone Research Institute is a non-profit organization based in Chicago, Illinois.
Founded by Walter C. McCrone in 1967, the institute focuses on materials analysis and research.
The institute offers training programs, workshops, and consulting services for scientists, researchers, and forensic experts.
Its expertise includes microscopical examination of materials, X-ray powder diffraction, and other analytical techniques.
The McCrone Research Institute is known for its work in art authentication, pigment analysis, and identification of unknown materials.
The Cost of Authentication
Authentication is not free. Dealers and auction houses often absorb the cost of shipping and expert fees. However, these costs are typically wrapped up in the agreed-upon commission.
What to Do If You Think You Have a Lost Masterpiece
If you think you’ve found something valuable, there’s a process for determining its legitimacy. Dealers and auction houses encourage people to submit images of their finds through online portals or email. Private dealers and galleries also welcome inquiries, provided the inquirer uses proper channels.
The Importance of Proper Channels
‘I don’t like people to bring things to my gallery,’ says Debra Force, a Manhattan dealer in American art. ‘That’s too invasive.’ Instead, she recommends starting with an email inquiry.
Conclusion
While finding a valuable artwork can be exciting, it’s essential to understand the reality behind thrift store finds. Art authentication is not easy, and the process can be lengthy and costly. By understanding how experts handle valuable finds and using proper channels, you may increase your chances of verifying the authenticity of your discovery.
