You need a professional art appraisal whenever the value of artwork will be used for legal, financial, or planning purposes. Common situations include estate planning and probate, insurance coverage, charitable donations, divorce or equitable distribution, and collection management. In these cases, a formal appraisal ensures the value is credible, defensible, and appropriate for its intended use.

A USPAP-compliant art appraisal follows the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, the ethical and technical standards required for professional valuation in the United States. USPAP compliance is essential for appraisals used for estates, insurance, taxes, and legal matters, ensuring the report meets professional, regulatory, and court-accepted standards.

Art appraisal fees are typically based on the scope of work, the number of objects, the level of research required, and the intended use of the appraisal. Fees are not based on a percentage of value. After an initial consultation, a clear fee quote is provided before any work begins.

es. On-site art appraisal services are available throughout the Vail Valley, Roaring Fork Valley (including Aspen), and across Colorado, with additional travel throughout the Rocky Mountain region and nationally by request. In-person examination is often recommended to accurately assess condition, authenticity, and market context.

Helpful information includes photographs, dimensions, signatures or markings, purchase history, provenance, prior appraisals, and any known exhibition or publication history. If documentation is limited, the appraisal process can still proceed—research and analysis are tailored to the information available.

Turnaround time depends on the size and complexity of the collection and the intended use of the appraisal. Most single-object or small-collection appraisals are completed within a few weeks following examination, while larger estate or collection appraisals may require additional time for research and documentation.

Item descripYes, in certain situations an art appraisal can be completed remotely using detailed photographs and supporting documentation. This type of appraisal—often called a desktop or remote appraisal—may be acceptable when the appraiser is able to confidently identify the artwork, assess relevant characteristics, and obtain sufficient market data to develop a credible value conclusion.

The IRS does accept appraisals completed without an in-person inspection when the scope of work is appropriate and the appraiser can properly identify and analyze the artwork, in compliance with USPAP standards. However, remote appraisals may not be suitable for all works, particularly when condition, authenticity, or materials cannot be adequately evaluated through images alone.

For insurance purposes, acceptance of a photograph-based appraisal depends on the insurance provider. Some insurers will accept a remote appraisal for scheduling coverage, while others require an in-person inspection. We recommend confirming your insurer’s requirements in advance; guidance can be provided during the consultation to determine whether a desktop or on-site appraisal is appropriate.