Art: how much it's really worth

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Dr Alastair Meredith, senior art specialist and head of department at Africa's leading auction house, Strauss & Co, will be giving a talk in Plett on "JH Pierneef, From Cape Town to Knysna", in March.

Meredith will be at the Piesang Valley community hall today 5 March and tomorrow, along with specialists, to assist with valuations on art, jewellery, silver, ceramics and furniture.

The visit is part of Strauss & Co reaching out to owners of art to understand the value of prized artworks.

Indecipherable 'artspeak'

The art world can sometimes feel completely daunting, with its complex terminology, indecipherable "artspeak", and sensational headlines about paintings fetching millions of rands and dollars, said a Strauss & Co media release.

For collectors in South Africa who have assembled a cherished collection or inherited a family heirloom, the question of valuing these prized possessions can be particularly overwhelming.

Best possible price

How does one determine the value of one's artworks and ensure they are adequately insured or sold at the best possible price?

Ian Hunter, senior art specialist and Garden Route representative at Strauss & Co, said: "Some collectors approach us for an accurate appraisal of their art collection for insurance purposes.

'Curious about origins'

"Others seek to achieve the best possible price by selling their items at auction. And occasionally, individuals are simply curious about the origins and value of an artwork, even if they have no intention of ever parting with it."

Strauss & Co offers free and confidential valuations of artworks and decorative art objects, in person or online, with no obligation to consign for sale.

Wide network

With a team of specialists who are experts in their respective fields, Strauss & Co also taps into a wide network of conservators, academics and technical experts, both locally and internationally.

"This collaborative approach enables us to accurately assess the value of an item and uncover its provenance. Provenance is hugely important as it establishes the chain of ownership back to its creation date.

"It considers for whom the piece was commissioned, and whether it has featured in any important art exhibitions.

'Use of provenance'

"Art validators use provenance to establish the authenticity and value of an artwork," Hunter said.

"Choosing the right auction house to appraise works provides owners with peace of mind, knowing that they will receive a market-related assessment of their art collection's value.

"By placing works on auction with well-considered estimates, the likelihood of a successful sale is increased."

'Face-to-face interaction'

Hunter highlighted the various valuation methods available at Strauss & Co.

"Some of our clients prefer the convenience of a digital valuation that can be completed through our website, while others enjoy the personal contact of a face-to-face interaction with one of our specialists."