How To Spot Artwork at Auctions

Attending auctions is one of the most exciting ways to find new art for your collection. While you may discover interesting pieces at estate sales or galleries, artwork auctions provide you with the opportunity to get your hands on a rare piece of high value at a reasonable price tag. Before attending auction houses or throwing your hat into the online-only auction ring, understanding what to look for in artwork up for bid can help you find pieces worth adding to your collection. Know how to tell if the art at auctions merits competitive bidding with this short guide. 

Know What You’re Looking At 

Everyone knows the famous names in the art world — Monet, Rembrandt, Picasso — but lesser-known artists are responsible for creating untold amounts of valuable pieces. When considering bidding on a particular piece of art at an auction, check the auction catalog for information like the artist’s name, the age of the piece, and the type of artwork. Such details can help you determine the potential value of the art. 

Look for Damage or Alterations 

Damaged art can severely lower its value. When checking out a particular piece, look for damage such as: 

• Rips and tears 
• Chips or cracks 
• Water stains 
• Punctures 

Whether you’re interested in a painting or a sculpture, look for any signs of damage before making your initial bid. If you find damage but it doesn’t matter to you, you can approach the auction house about the potential of a private sales agreement instead of them placing it up for bid. 

Pay Attention to the Details 

Art valuation at auctions depends on several factors, many of them small details that may seem unimportant when you begin bidding. However, considering how much these details can change the cost of a piece of art, you should keep these in mind when choosing your next bid.

Artwork frames: The better the condition and design of the frame, the more likely the painting or print within remains in good condition. Some frames also come from famous frame makers or contain rare materials, making them as valuable as the art inside. 

Medium: Certain art pieces created with particular mediums will fetch higher prices than others. For example, a jade sculpture would cost more than an aluminum one in most circumstances, as would a painting in oil instead of acrylic.

Colors: Color affects how we perceive art. Brighter colors attract more eyes, with red being especially popular, often increasing the cost of paintings containing it in larger amounts. 

Discover Your Next Piece of Art at an Auction Near You 

Whether attending auctions in person or participating in online auctions, knowing what to look for in paintings can help you discover pieces you love that also have a high value. Artwork auctions featuring many different types of art require a special understanding of the traits and values of paintings, prints, or sculpted pieces. Find out about upcoming auctions in the Dalhart, TX, area by calling High Plains Auctioneers at (806) 244-6776.