Degas authentification
September 12, 2019 12:29 PM   Subscribe

A friend recently purchased what we believe is a Degas sketch; but we'd like to have it authenticated. Does anyone know a reliable - and frugal - means of doing this? Thanks in advance!
posted by longhaultrucker to Media & Arts (5 answers total) 1 user marked this as a favorite
 
Response by poster: authentication, that is!
posted by longhaultrucker at 12:51 PM on September 12, 2019


Where are you? If you're in a large city, there should be at least one good auction house.
posted by Mr.Know-it-some at 1:17 PM on September 12, 2019


Take it to the curator of European art (or whatever their title might be) at a reputable museum of art in a large-ish city. Pick a place that you know has work by Degas. Or, take it to an auction house like Christie's or Sotheby's. Don't expect them to fall all over themselves dealing with you; it might take some time and persistence. Start by shooting them a picture of it by email, with your query.
posted by beagle at 1:18 PM on September 12, 2019


Hey, please don't just walk into a museum wielding your maybe-Degas drawing. Call first, and if they're like most museums, they will probably refuse to authenticate/value and send you towards an appraiser. You can also find one in your area at the American Society of Appraisers "Find an Appraiser" search.
posted by PussKillian at 2:19 PM on September 12, 2019 [8 favorites]


If the appraiser pooh-poohs the value and then offers to take it off your hands for a modest amount, get a second opinion.
posted by Sunburnt at 3:04 PM on September 12, 2019 [5 favorites]


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