Written appraisal
African art appraisal for estate, insurance, divorce and tax
Collectors among themselves go by auction results. A signed African art appraisal matters when you have to prove a value to someone else: heirs, an insurer, a court or a tax authority.
Inheritance and estates
African art collections are hard to value: next to decorative pieces there may be one object worth more than the rest of the estate together. A written appraisal gives all heirs the same basis for a fair division and helps prevent disputes. Where inheritance tax applies, what usually counts is the market value on the date of death – the appraisal documents it for that date.
Insurance
Household policies often cover art only up to a limit. After a theft, fire or water damage you must prove what was lost. An appraisal made beforehand – with photos, description and value – makes the claim much easier.
Divorce and separation
When shared property is divided, both sides need a value they can accept. An independent specialist with no interest in buying the collection gives a neutral figure.
Gifts, donations and tax
Giving pieces to your children or donating them to a museum can have tax consequences, and the authorities may ask how the value was determined. Ask your tax adviser which requirements the appraisal must meet.
What the notarized signature means
The expert signs your appraisal in person before a notary. The notary confirms who signed it – so heirs, insurers and authorities know the appraisal really comes from the named expert. The notarization refers to the signature, not to the value: the value is the expert's professional opinion.
How an African art appraisal works
Start with a free estimate from photos of the most interesting pieces. If it points to real value, order the written appraisal – fixed prices from CHF/EUR 290, never a percentage of the value. See prices.
Frequently asked questions
Is a free online estimate enough for an estate or insurance?
No. It helps you decide which pieces matter, but heirs, insurers and authorities expect a written, signed appraisal.
Does the notary confirm the value?
No. The notary confirms the identity of the expert and that the expert signed personally. The value is the expert's professional opinion.
Does an appraisal prove that a piece is authentic?
An appraisal states the expert's opinion on attribution, age and value. It is not a guarantee; for important pieces, provenance research and sometimes scientific tests complete the picture.
Find out what your African art is worth
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