Looking and documenting
Understanding an artwork’s documents
Identifying an artwork means distinguishing what can be seen, what has been reported and what documents can establish.
Artwork pages bring together the work’s characteristics, photographs and available references. Each element should be read according to its nature and its relationship to the particular work offered.
Photographs and signature
Photographs allow you to examine the materials, condition, signature, inscriptions and reverse. A visible signature is described as such; its image alone does not establish authenticity.
Documentary references
A museum entry, catalogue raisonné or archive may document the artist, a source image or a work. It is necessary to check whether the reference concerns the precise example offered. A source about an original painting does not automatically authenticate a print reproducing its composition.
Provenance
Provenance describes the known history of the work. Information supplied by an owner remains reported provenance until supported by documents. An invoice, label or letter must be considered in context and must be traceable to the work.
Gallery attestation
An attestation issued by Swiss Art Gallery records the gallery’s declaration concerning the work identified in that document. Its author, date, scope and any qualifications form part of that statement. It is distinct from an artist’s certificate or an assessment issued by an independent third party.
Independent opinion or assessment
An expert opinion, certificate or catalogue raisonné entry relates to a specific work and an identified issuer. The scope, qualifications and date of the examination matter as much as the document’s title. Such a document is mentioned when it is actually available.
Attribution terms
Terms such as “attributed to”, “studio of”, “circle of” or “after” form part of the artwork’s identification. They should be retained in discussions and shared information, without being replaced by a definite attribution.
Before you decide
Ask for detailed views, condition information and any accompanying documents relevant to your decision. For an owner’s listing, viewing, payment and handover are arranged with the identified seller.
Your contact in St-Prex
Stève Canapini
Operator of Swiss Art Gallery
Stève Canapini is your contact for discovering artworks, preparing a purchase or arranging the sale of a painting with Swiss Art Gallery. Conversations focus on the work itself, its condition, attribution and available documentation.
Visits in St-Prex take place by appointment. They offer an opportunity to look closely at the paintings and discuss your plans.