The identification of a work of art can be a challenging and lengthy process. It often begins by identifying the artist; if the art is signed and the artist listed, the process is much easier. Then the question remains, is it an original or a copy? If the art is typical of the artist's recognized work there is little reason to question authenticity.
Artists not found in standard references may be listed in information relating to particular areas, or a specific time. This is when research begins. Determine as closely as possible the time and place the art was created. To help establish age and location, things like type of canvas or support and the current condition of the paint surface, the type of stretcher, construction, wood, writing on the back, gallery, exhibition, auction and frame shop labels, the subject of the art as well as the style all provide clues. The style of dress, a building, skyline or landscape feature can also be helpful in establishing the period in which it was created.
Gather as many clues as possible and then look for the expert in that artist or area. This may be an historical society, local museum, art gallery or recognized expert specializing in that type or period of art.
Authentication or identification sometimes takes years, and even then may not be conclusive and occasionally even challenged years later when additional information becomes available.
AUTHENTICATION