Frequently Asked Questions

What can an art advisor do for me?

With over 30 years of experience in the art world, Behling Art Gallery provides clients with expert advisory services to help grow and manage their art collections. Whether you're acquiring new works, selling pieces, or planning your estate, we offer personalized guidance that aligns with your artistic and financial goals. Our extensive network and in-depth knowledge of the market allow us to find the best opportunities for our clients, negotiate favorable deals, and curate collections that stand the test of time.

What is an art appraisal report?

An art appraisal report is a professional document that establishes the value of an artwork or an entire collection. These reports are essential for a variety of reasons, including estate planning, insurance, tax purposes (such as charitable donations or capital gains), and legal matters. As IRS Qualified Appraisers, Behling Art Gallery provides USPAP-compliant reports, ensuring that the appraisals are legally recognized and accurate for their intended purpose, whether for tax filings or insurance claims.

Do you appraise paintings, sculptures, photographs, and prints?

Yes, we appraise all types of visual media, including paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, and mixed-media works. While our expertise spans a broad range of artistic forms, we specialize in modern and contemporary art. We conduct detailed market research to assess the value of each piece, considering current market trends, historical sales, and the artwork’s condition and provenance.

Why are there different values for the same artwork?

The value of an artwork can vary depending on the context of the appraisal. For example, the value might differ if you are insuring the piece, donating it to charity, or planning to sell it. Each purpose requires a different approach to valuation. When appraising for insurance, the focus is on replacement value, while charitable donations or estate planning might involve fair market value. As qualified appraisers, we provide tailored reports based on the intended purpose of the appraisal, ensuring compliance with IRS guidelines for tax-related matters and other legal functions.

How much does an art appraisal cost?

The cost of an appraisal depends on the scope of the work involved, including the complexity of research, documentation, and the amount of time required to prepare the report. After an initial consultation, we will provide you with a detailed quote based on your specific needs. It’s important to note that the cost of the appraisal is not determined by the value of the artwork but rather by the level of expertise and time required to complete the valuation.

How frequently should my appraisal be updated for insurance?

We recommend updating your art appraisal every 3 to 5 years, especially if your collection has grown, if market conditions have changed, or if new works have been added. Keeping your appraisal up to date ensures that your insurance coverage remains adequate and reflects the true value of your collection.

What other services do you provide beyond appraisals and acquisitions?

In addition to art appraisals and acquisitions, Behling Art Gallery also provides specialized services in art law, including consulting on art theft, recovery, and estate matters. John Behling, the gallery’s founder, is frequently consulted by federal law enforcement agencies on cases related to stolen art and legal disputes concerning art estates. Whether you're dealing with recovering a stolen work or navigating the legal complexities of art inheritance, we offer expert guidance to ensure that your interests are fully protected.

If my question hasn’t been answered here, how can I get in touch?

If you have additional questions or would like to learn more about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly through our contact page. We’re here to help with all your art-related inquiries, whether you’re looking for expert advice on a new acquisition, need an appraisal, or are seeking assistance with legal matters.