Figuring out the value of old paintings/reprints

[Ann-Marie]

I have several paintings and reprints, all framed that I have inherited throughout the years. I am not sure if they are worth any money. How would I go about this? I have tried looking up on the internet, but I don't find much.

 

[ace2000]

We go to the nearby art festivals when we can make them. It's always difficult for me to price that stuff. What's a good deal, etc. The only gauge I can use is how I feel about the work.

Once you get beyond the Picasso or Monet realm, what would anyone pay for a painting? How do you distinguish what's good vs. great? Don't think I'll ever figure it out.

 

[Passepartout]

Start by searching for the artist's name. Include eBay and any art auction sites you find. Prints are probably lower value, but because there are more of them you' re likely to find more sales. Then if you find you have something by a noted artist, there are the auction houses. Send a photo and what info you have. Provenance is everything.

Sign up for Antique Road Show's fan letter and apply for tix. I did and took 4 pieces we own. Didn't get on TV, but had a blast and got our stuff valued- free.

Bottom line, with art, it is worth what someone is willing to pay. There is no book of numismatic value, so any appraisal is simply someone's educated estimate. Better than a guess, but barely.

Jim

 

[Ann-Marie]

Start by searching for the artist's name. Include eBay and any art auction sites you find. Prints are probably lower value, but because there are more of them you' re likely to find more sales. Then if you find you have something by a noted artist, there are the auction houses. Send a photo and what info you have. Provenance is everything.

Sign up for Antique Road Show's fan letter and apply for tix. I did and took 4 pieces we own. Didn't get on TV, but had a blast and got our stuff valued- free.

Bottom line, with art, it is worth what someone is willing to pay. There is no book of numismatic value, so any appraisal is simply someone's educated estimate. Better than a guess, but barely.

Jim

Thanks Jim. The funny thing about the Antique Road Show is that they are going to WGBH in MA. My daughter works for WGBH, and is helping to plan the event. She is only allowed to bring 2 items, and one of mine is not included in her 2!