How to Spot Valuable Paintings for Your Art Collection

Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci is the world’s most expensive painting. It was sold for more than $450 million at a Christie’s New York auction after a 19-minute bidding war in 2017. Unless you are an art expert, figuring out whether a painting is valuable is difficult if you do not have enough knowledge on how to spot a prized artwork. Who knows? Your family’s antique oil painting that is stored in the attic is worth something.  

It is helpful to know some things on how to determine valuable paintings. These can help you assess if an art piece has high monetary value. Fortunately, there are guides on how to tell if an artwork is valuable. Here are 7 factors that you can check the next time you buy artwork for your art collection.

7 Factors That Determine If a Painting Is Valuable

1. Provenance

One good indicator of how to evaluate valuable paintings is through their provenance or the history of previous owners. The painting has more value if a prominent collector or a recognized art gallery once owned it. Do some research on the painting or ask the seller for any receipts or documentation. You can also check the back of the painting for any information about its previous owners.

When you buy artworks from Nami Art Gallery, you are assured of their authenticity and provenance. The gallery works closely with artists and reputable sources to ensure the legitimacy and origin of the artworks that give quality and value in every piece of art.

2. Notable Artist

Artworks cost more if they are created by well-known artists. Valuable paintings are also determined if there is an interesting story behind an artist like an early death and only a few paintings were produced. The price goes up since the supply cannot meet the demand for more artwork. Paintings of current artists who are trendy can also sell at a higher price.   

3. Subject Matter

The subject matter of the artworks is also a factor in whether they can be considered valuable paintings or not. Paintings of beautiful women are usually more expensive than those of men. Happy and bright landscapes tend to have more worth than dark and somber landscapes. However, the subject matter is not an issue if the artwork was done by a famous painter.    

4. Colors

Colors also determine the value of an artwork. A study reveals that paintings that feature blue and red colors cost more at auctions.

5. Medium

The medium where the art was painted indicates if a piece of art will sell for more. Paintings on canvas are worth more than those done on paper, print, or sketches.

6. Condition of the Painting

Valuable paintings must be in good condition with no tears, cracks, faded paints, or sun damage. The price of an artwork decreases if there are issues such as these. Check the condition of the painting before buying.  

7. Wall Power

Wall power is another thing to consider when you are looking for valuable paintings. This means the ability of a painting to draw attention when it is hanging on the wall. Does it bring out any emotions in you while staring at the art piece? Wall power affects the cost of a painting.  

There are useful guides that determine valuable paintings. Factors such as provenance, artist, subject matter, colors, medium, wall power, and condition of the painting can help you spot if the artwork you are buying for your art collection is worth something. These important things can evaluate if a painting can command high monetary value.

Nami Art Gallery sells beautiful artworks from talented artists, ensuring a curated collection of high-quality and unique pieces. You can browse through a diverse range of styles, mediums, and artistic expressions, allowing you to find valuable paintings that suit your taste and preferences. Are you looking for a new painting to add to your art collection? Nami Art Gallery can assist.