How many times have you admired an old painting and wondered: is this an important work of art or just a decorative picture?

If you have a passion for art, are a budding collector or maybe you have inherited a painting whose value you do not know, this article is for you. Understanding whether a painting has economic or artistic value is not easy, but with a few tips you can start to get an idea before even consulting an expert.

Here are the basic steps to recognise a valuable work of art and find out if you have a little treasure on your hands.

HOW TO RECOGNISE A VALUABLE PAINTING

1. The artist’s signature: a crucial detail

One of the elements you must immediately check is the signature. Beware though: not all signatures are a guarantee of authenticity.

• Where to look for it? Usually the signature can be found in a corner of the painting or on the back of the canvas.
• How to check authenticity? If you find a famous name, watch out for forgeries. Compare the signature with the original ones (you can find examples in art catalogues or online databases).
• What if there is no signature? Many artists do not sign their works. In these cases, the painting style and technique become crucial for a more in-depth analysis.

2. The era and style of the painting

An old painting or one from a certain historical period may be of significant value.

• Look at the details: the type of brushstroke, colours, composition and subject matter may suggest the time of execution.
• Compare with other works: if the style resembles that of a known artist, it may be his work or that of his pupil.
• Beware of reproductions: some paintings may be copies of famous works. Copies may also be valuable, but it depends on the quality and the time of production.

3. The medium and materials used

The medium of the painting

can reveal a lot of information about its authenticity and value.

• Canvas, panel or paper? Works on canvas or wood panel are often older and more valuable than those on paper.
• Pigments: the colours used in period paintings contained natural materials, different from modern industrial ones. An analysis of the pigments can be useful to determine the age of the work.
• The back of the canvas: check the structure and frame. A very old canvas will have obvious signs of ageing, such as oxidised nails and a frame blackened by time.

4. Provenance: the history of a painting matters

Do you have information on who owned the painting before you? A painting with clear documentation is more valuable.

• Certificates of authenticity: if the painting is accompanied by a certificate issued by an expert or a gallery, this is a good sign.
• Historical provenance: if the painting belonged to an important collection or was exhibited at an exhibition, its value increases.
• Artist’s archive: some artists have annotated catalogues of their works. If the painting is registered in one of these catalogues, it may have a high value. For example, the De Chirico Foundation is the only institution to trust for the authenticity of a work by the master Giorgio de Chirico.

5. Turn to an expert for a professional evaluation

If, after your research, you think that the painting may have a certain value, the best thing to do is to consult an expert. An antiquarian, an art appraiser or an auction house can give you a more thorough analysis and a realistic estimate of its market price.

Is your painting a hidden masterpiece?

Holding a valuable painting in your hands is a unique thrill, but also an enormous responsibility. Now that you know the first steps to recognise its value, you can start your investigation like a true expert.

How about you? Have you ever discovered an unexpected work of art? Tell me about your experience in the comments!

To discover the tricks of a collector read the article where I explain how to collect art successfully, to start your great adventure in the world of collecting.