FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Art advisory, appraisals and collection management
Role and approach
What does an independent art advisor do?
I assist private collectors, family offices and companies in every decision concerning art, from forming and enhancing a collection to acquisitions and sales, from research to the long term care of the works. Each assignment is handled independently and tailored to the client, with the discretion this profession demands.
Why work with an independent advisor rather than a gallery or an auction house?
My only objective is the client's interest. Galleries and auction houses play a different and entirely legitimate role, yet they remain an interested party in any sale; independent advice, by contrast, offers judgement that is free and shielded from any commercial pressure.
What are your areas of specialisation?
My field is modern and contemporary art, in which I have worked for twenty years on the international market. Such a defined focus allows for genuine, demonstrable expertise, far removed from improvisation. When a project calls for other competencies, I turn to a select network of scholars and professionals.
Appraisals and valuations
What is an appraisal compliant with USPAP and IVS standards?
USPAP and IVS are the leading international benchmarks for the valuation of works of art. An appraisal that observes them is a written report, drawn up independently and with rigour, which determines the value of an asset according to recognised criteria. It is this methodological soundness that gives it full validity before insurers, tax authorities and the courts.
When is a valuation needed?
The reasons are many and reach well beyond a sale. A valuation is required to insure a work adequately, in the event of an inheritance or a donation, for the division of an estate, for tax obligations, to secure financing, or to lend it to an exhibition. In each of these cases an accurate and defensible value is essential.
How often should a collection be revalued?
It is advisable to review it at intervals of one to three years, the closer together the higher the value of the works or the more dynamic the relevant market. Prices can change quickly, and an out of date estimate risks reflecting a value far removed from the real one.
Does an appraisal include authentication?
These are two distinct matters. The appraiser establishes the value of a work; authentication, meaning its firm attribution to an artist, rests with the archives, foundations or experts recognised for that particular artist. Where appropriate, I accompany the client through this process and coordinate its stages.
Working together
How does the advisory process work?
It begins with a conversation, to define the objectives and direction of the project, whether it concerns the development of a collection, an acquisition or a sale. A phase of study and analysis follows, with market research and checks on provenance and condition; I then present my assessments and proposals, carefully documented, so that every decision is informed and considered. Once the approach is agreed, I attend to the practical side through to completion, at every stage with the same discretion.
What does collection management involve?
Caring for a collection calls for time and sustained attention. I look after cataloguing and inventory, condition reports and conservation, logistics and transport, insurance advice, installation, loan coordination and digital archiving. The purpose is to preserve the value of the works over time, cultural as much as economic.
How are fees structured?
Fees vary according to the nature of the assignment and are set out clearly from the very first contact. Appraisals are calculated on the work actually carried out, never as a percentage of the value of the asset, so as to protect the impartiality of the assessment. Transparency and freedom from any conflict of interest remain the foundation of my practice.
Do you work with international clients, by appointment?
Yes. I receive by appointment between Como, Milan and Ticino, and I follow clients in Italy and abroad. Direct relationships with galleries, auction houses, museums and artists' studios in several countries allow me to support projects of broad international scope as well.
Every collaboration begins with a conversation.
Get in touch