Fine Art Appraisal: Why Don't Conservators Assess the Value of Paintings?
At CCPC, we conduct condition assessments and write proposed treatment reports for clients considering the purchase or sale of paintings in their collections. We often visit auction houses and galleries to perform these assessments on-site. However, we do not conduct fine art appraisals. While clients might use our condition and proposed treatment reports to determine whether the stated sale price or auction range for a painting of interest is worth it to them, we do not comment on the value of paintings.
Only professional art appraisers can make a judgment about the value of paintings. We recommend that clients seek valuation from an expert who is familiar with all relevant legal and technical aspects, who belongs to the Appraisers Association of America, and who is compliant with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice in the United States. Conservators do not conduct appraisals for several important professional and ethical reasons.
Here's Why Conservators Do Not Conduct Appraisals
Different Areas of Expertise
Fine art appraisal work is completely divorced from conservation work. Conservators and appraisers have distinct areas of expertise. Conservators are trained in the preservation, restoration, and scientific analysis of art and cultural heritage objects. Their focus is on understanding the materials, techniques, and condition of an object, as well as on the methods required for its proper care and preservation. Appraisers, on the other hand, specialize in determining the value of objects. The appraisal process requires a different set of skills and knowledge, particularly in the art market, valuation principles, and legal considerations.
Conflict of Interest
A fundamental principle in conservation ethics is to avoid conflicts of interest. If a conservator were to appraise an artwork, a conflict could arise. For example, the conservator might benefit financially from the treatment of an artwork if its value were appraised higher post-restoration. To maintain objectivity and trust, it is best practice for conservators to separate their conservation role from financial valuation.
Professional Standards and Guidelines
Professional organizations, such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), provide guidelines and standards for conservation practices. These standards typically include recommendations that conservators should refrain from appraising items they are treating to maintain ethical boundaries and avoid any perception of impropriety.
Legal and Insurance Implications
Appraisals are often used for legal and insurance purposes, such as insurance coverage, claims, donations, and estate settlements. An appraisal needs to be unbiased and conform to legal standards. Conservators, whose primary responsibility is the physical care of the artwork, may not be qualified to provide appraisals that meet these legal and insurance standards.
Specialized Training for Appraisals
Appraising art and cultural objects is a specialized field that requires training in market analysis, legal aspects of valuation, and a thorough understanding of various genres and periods of art. Appraisers often have access to sales databases and auction records and stay updated on market trends, which are outside the typical scope of a conservator's training. A professional appraiser will complete continuing education classes regularly.
The Condition and Treatment Report as Part of the Appraisal Process
While conservators do not directly participate in the valuation of art, their work plays a crucial role in the appraisal process. A conservation examination and the resulting treatment report provide valuable information that can significantly aid appraisers in determining the value of a piece. The key contributions of a conservation examination and treatment report to the appraisal process include the following.
Condition Assessment
The conservator’s detailed assessment of the artwork’s condition is critical. This includes identifying any damages, deterioration, or previous restorations. The condition of an artwork significantly influences its market value.
Treatment Recommendations
The report outlines proposed conservation treatments or measures required to preserve the artwork. This information can impact the appraisal by highlighting the artwork's future preservation needs, which might affect its value.
Authenticity and Historical Significance
Conservators often uncover information about the authenticity, provenance, and historical context of an artwork during their examination. This information can be vital for appraisers to accurately assess the artwork's value.
Technical Analysis
Conservators may conduct technical analysis that reveals information about the materials and techniques used in the artwork. This can be important for valuation, especially for rare or historically significant pieces.
Post-Treatment Condition
If the artwork undergoes conservation treatment, the post-treatment condition can also affect its value. A successfully conserved piece may have enhanced value due to its improved condition and longevity.
Despite their significant role in providing information that influences the appraisal of artwork, conservators maintain a clear boundary and do not engage in the valuation process. This separation ensures ethical practice and objectivity in both the conservation and appraisal fields. Appraisers use the information provided by conservators, along with their knowledge of the art market and valuation principles, to determine the artwork's financial worth.
