[Stonetown]

Hi folks. Has anyone used Sotheby's to appraise their art? They charge $500 to appraise so I'd hope they would be good at it. Before I pay them, I'd love to hear any feedback or experience. Or any alternative options that an insurer would accept.  A gallery etc. Thanks in advance.

[Levi Stubbs Tears]

It will be interesting to see if they are more realistic than the bearish values their auction team apply.

[LJCal]

What is the value of the piece approx? Unless the piece is worth hundreds of thousands that is alot to pay, check the terms of your insurer as often they'll accept valuations from smaller galleries and auction houses who will charge less.

[LJCal]

Oct 13, 2020 23:01:11 GMT 1 Levi Stubbs Tears said:

It will be interesting to see if they are more realistic than the bearish values their auction team apply.

I'd expect they would have alot of negligence claims if they did, the basis of each valuation is usually very different and so is the aim. Most insurance valuations cover the replacement cost of a piece including all fees etc and assuming for scarcity. Auction estimates are meaningless and they pretty much acknowledge that they try and pitch pieces lower than their likely hammer price, this if often no bad thing. 

[Knowss]

Reach out to Philips

[Stonetown]

Thanks for the advice guys! 
I will do some more looking around to see who might qualify and be a bit cheaper than Sotheby's.