Enhancement of a still life by Maurice de Vlaminck (1876-1958)
A painting attributed to Maurice de Vlaminck, titled “Nature morte au pain et verre,” was examined to determine its authenticity, correct attribution, and its potential for international market placement.
The work had previously been offered on the market without success: a previous attempt at auction had resulted in an unsold item.
Subject: still life with pain and glass
Attribution: Maurice de Vlaminck
Movement: Fauves and Expressionism
Period: circa 1924
Technique: oil on canvas
Measurements: 38.3×46.5 cm
Preliminary analysis
The activity began with a direct examination of the painting, aimed at verifying:
- executive technique and materials
- stylistic coherence
- quality of the pictorial material
- presence and conformity of the signature
The composition, built on a few essential elements, highlights a dense texture and compact volumes, characteristics attributable to the artist’s mature production.
Verification of authenticity
The crucial step was the activation of the official authentication process.
The work was submitted to the committee of the Wildenstein Plattner Institute https://wpi.art/maurice-de-vlaminck/ the most authoritative reference for the validation of the works of Maurice de Vlaminck.
Obtaining the expertise has allowed us to:
- overcome the criticality that had determined the previous unsold stock
- officially confirm the attribution
- make the work suitable for the qualified market
This step represented the turning point of the entire operation.
Regularization for export
In order to proceed with international marketing, it was necessary to obtain the free circulation certificate issued by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities.
Obtaining this authorization allowed:
- the legitimate export of the work
- access to foreign markets
- expanding the pool of potential buyers
Enhancement strategy
Once full documentary and scientific compliance was established, the sales strategy was established.
The choice of the Paris square was determined by:
- greater cultural proximity to the artist
- presence of collectors and specialized market
- greater sensitivity of the local market towards Vlaminck’s works
This evaluation allowed us to identify the most favorable context for an economic appreciation consistent with the quality of the work.
Market positioning and conclusions
A previously unsold work has returned to being a fully marketable asset, obtaining an appreciation of 30% above the initial valuation, through the creation of a complete set consisting of:
- certification of authenticity
- technical documentation
- historical-critical analysis
- administrative regularization for export
- professional photographic equipment
The completeness of the documentation contributed to:
- reduce uncertainties for operators
- increase market interest
- qualify the work within the correct segment
Only the integration of these elements allows the economic and cultural potential of a work of art to be fully expressed.