Evaluations on antiques and works of art

An appraisal is a document in which an expert in the field determines the value of an artistic or antique item based on specific criteria.
Unlike a simple estimate – which provides a rough indication, the assessment takes several variables into account. Although it does not have legal value like a expertise, sharing the rigour and meticulousness with which the property is examined.

When evaluating a work of art, an antique object or an entire collection, several variables come into play:

Harmony and style: beauty that reflects traditional aesthetic standards makes a work very attractive;
Quality of materials: the use of high-quality materials increases the value of the work, partly because it often involves the handiwork of skilled artists or craftsmen;
Subject: some depictions are more desirable than others; for example, a bright and serene portrait is more appealing than a gloomy or decadent image;
Rarity: the rarer a work is (but not too rare), the more interest it arouses;
Intrinsic value: an object that is valuable due to its materials or characteristics is automatically more sought after;
Author: the signature of a recognised artist can represent a safe investment;
Era: some historical periods tell stories and evoke greater fascination than others;
Quality of execution: a well-made piece is more appreciated and sought after;
Provenance: an object that belonged to an important collection guarantees quality and stimulates the desire to own it;
State of conservation: a work that has not undergone alterations or tampering is more valuable;
Current fashion: what is fashionable at a given moment encourages people to buy it in order to stand out, please themselves or be admired;

For these reasons, the value of an asset can change over time.