Frequently Asked Questions

These terms are used in varied ways. If we think ‘collectable’ in terms of buy-in interest, we think of prominent South African art. Some are inclined to perceive it as a ‘collectable’ commodity – as a rare, unique and sought-after product. Here we think of artefacts, curiosities and objet d’art as well.

Provenance refers to the origin, source or history of ownership of a valued object or work of art or literature.

In the case of a collection valuation, I suggest conservative commercial market values. When I do a deceased estate valuation, I suggest a minimum nominal value on a piece.

It is a word borrowed from French. It simply means an object of beauty and curiosity – something odd, exotic or rare.   

It is the norm to measure the actual painting or work on paper only – without the frame and/or mount – first vertically and then horizontally. If the work on paper is a graphic print (etching, woodcut print, silkscreen or lithograph) an edition number is written below the print – for example, 2/10 or 20/100. Please send this number as well.

Please also send a close-up photo of the artist’s signature.   

When measuring a sculpture, the height without stand, base or plinth would be required.

Bronze sculptures are often also cast in editions. Please try to find this number, for example, 2/10 or 10/15 and send this along.

Please also send a close-up photo of the sculptor’s signature – sometimes it appears embossed or carved into the bronze or just engraved or written on wooden or metal pieces. 

Reprography is another word for reproduction or copy – almost like a poster. It may also mean that a person did the artwork in the style of an artist. I often encounter forgeries and know what to look out for.

Please send a close-up photo of the stamp on, for example, the elephant tusks or wild animal’s hoof or scull. Also, send along a scanned copy of the hunting permit.

Please send the total number and a list of all the items in the set. Also, send individual photos and of the brand printed on the reverse or beneath one of the pieces.

As of late, renewed interest in and debates about colonial times have resurfaced.  African artefacts and relics have been put under the spotlight again, also as curiosities. Most importantly, their value lies in the fact that they are critical storytellers of history and traditions.

Artisanal refers to a creative skill executed by an artisan (from French: artisan, Italian: Artigiano). An example of this may be, as Wikipedia explains, ‘a craft worker who makes or creates material objects partly or entirely by hand. Artisans practise a craft and may through experience and aptitude reach the expressive levels of an artist.