Entering the world of art collecting is like stepping into a vibrant universe of creativity and self-expression. However, as with any new world, this universe comes with its own set of terminology, which may sound like a foreign language to newcomers. To help you navigate the art world we have compiled a guide to the essential art jargon that every art collector should know and understand.
Acquisition – the process of obtaining artworks for a collection. This may be done through purchase, donation or other means.
Appraisal – the expert assessment of the value of an artwork. The appraisal should be based around considerations of artist’s reputation, provenance, condition and the recent sale of comparable works. Appraisals are useful for insurance purposes, estate planning and assessing the worth of a collection.
Artist Proof – an additional set of prints produced in addition to the limited edition. Normally this set is used as a test by artists to assess the quality of the print. Often the artist’s proof has a more limited availability compared to the limited edition.
Authentication – refers to the process of verifying the legitimacy and origin of an artwork. It confirms the artist’s ownership and creation, and helps to ensure that it is not a forgery. Authentication often relies on various methods including expert analysis, research on provenance, and examination of techniques and materials.
Buyer’s Premium – the additional fee that a buyer pays on top of the hammer price when acquiring an artwork at auction. This fee is a percentage of the final sale price and is typically set by the auction house.
Catalog Raisonné – a comprehensive, annotated listing of all known artworks by a particular artist. This document is often published and includes details such as titles, dates, mediums and provenance of each work. For a collector, it is a useful document to provide information about the artist’s overall body of work which can help aid in the authentication process.
Certificate of Authenticity – an official document provided by the artist, gallery or other reputable authority that verifies the authenticity of an artwork. It normally includes details such as the title, medium, dimensions and artist’s signature. Collectors should request a COA when purchasing an artwork.
Consignment – an arrangement where an artwork is placed in the care of a gallery or dealer for sale. The owner retains ownership until the artwork is sold and the gallery receives a commission upon sale.
Curator – a professional responsible for the selecting, organisation and management of artworks within a collection or exhibition.
Format – refers to the physical characteristics and layout of an artwork. It includes the size, shape and overall dimensions of each work.
Genre – refers to specific styles or categories of art. This can include landscape, portrait, still life or abstract for example. Knowing various genres can help a collector define their own personal preferences and tastes.
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Limited Edition – refers to a set of number of prints of an artwork that the artist has decided to produce. Each print is numbered and signed by the artist. Limited editions are still original works by an artist, and are more exclusive than an option edition.
Medium – refers to the materials used by an artist to create their work. Examples of different mediums include oil paint on canvas, watercolour, sculpture, photography and mixed media. Mixed media refers to the use of multiple mediums within one work.
Monotype/Monoprint – a unique printmaking technique where the artist creates a single, one-of-a-kind artwork. Monotypes are valued for their individuality and spontaneity that arises from the artist’s direct engagement with the chosen medium.
Movement – refers to the specific style or approach to art that shares common characteristics, themes or techniques and is associated with a particular period in history.
Open Edition – refers to a print that can be produced in an unlimited quantity. Unlike limited editions, open editions can be printed continuously making them more available and affordable. Whilst open editions may lack exclusivity they do allow access for a larger audience.
Original – refers to artwork that is the authentic creation of an artist and not a copy, reproduction or replica. Original works may be either unique, one-of-a-kind artworks or editioned works.
Printers Proof – an additional set of prints produced during the printing process to check the quality and accuracy of the edition. These proofs are generally set aside for the printer allowing them to assess colour, alignment and other technical aspects before the completion of the limited edition. Printer’s proofs can sometimes have slight variations from the main edition.
Provenance – the documented history of ownership and the origin of an artwork. Provenance traces the artwork’s lineage, helping to establish the authenticity of a work.
Replica – refers to a copy or reproduction of an original artwork. Replicas may be created for decorative purposes or educational uses.
Secondary Market – refers to the resale or exchange of artworks that have already been through the primary market or initial sale by the artist or gallery.
Signature on Verso – refers to the artist’s signature being located on the back or verso of the artwork. This is often a deliberate choice by an artist.
Unique – refers to an artwork that exists as a singular and one-of-a-kind work. A unique work is the only one in existence. The term emphasises the originality and exclusivity of the work.