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Fine Art Appraisal

Quality art appraisal services built on experience you can rely on.

As more Canadians invest in art – sending art prices skyrocketing – collectors need to protect properly with updated appraisal.  Whether for insurance, tax, division of property, estate planning or potential sale – collectors need to boost their risk management efforts to assure the true value of their collections.

Estate Valuations

Acquisitions + Sales

Insurance Requirements

Charitable Donations

Cultural Property Donations

Appraisal Reviews

Testimonials

“Denise Lemaster was recommended to us by a Calgary gallery owner when we needed to have several paintings appraised. Friendly, professional, very thorough and accommodating of our short time-line.”

M.Niven

“I was extremely impressed with the recent appraisal Denise did of my Maud Lewis painting. She was efficient, detailed and had a very quick turnaround.  I would have no hesitation in recommending  her services.”

Diane Champion

FAQ

Why get an appraisal?

•Insurance – basic homeowner’s insurance policy leaves artwork largely uninsured, and as art values fluctuate, appraisals should be updated every five years
•Establishing equitable distribution of property
•Determining art donor’s income tax deduction
•Proving value in anticipation of sale
•Verifying preparation of estate tax returns
•Helping with asset management, loan collateral and related financial and legal matters

How does an appraisal work?

The initial consult with client confirms the need for the appraisal and the scope of work required. If possible, a formal inspection of the works to be appraised in situ ensures closer accuracy. If this is not possible, we can appraise with virtual assessment. The client will be requested to provide details and information as needed, plus photographs if contact and method is determined to be undertaken virtually. After inspection, research is undertaken using wide reference base, extensive knowledge and specialized training.

What is the result of an appraisal?

A formal written appraisal report is compiled. This appraisal report conforms to the standards of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) and the ethical, technical and methodological requirements of the Code of Ethics and Appraisal Report writing standards of the ISA; along with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) of the Appraisal Foundation.

Contact


*Please provide the following information so we can better assist you:

- Artist first and last name
- Title
- Media (oil, watercolour, etc. / paper, canvas, etc.)
- Size (image, or canvas size)
- Marks (signed, titled, dated etc.)
- Condition (scratches, fadings etc.)
- Provenance (where did you get it from, any pertinent labels on back, the artwork's history etc.)
- Images of work

*All information is kept confidential