How to Tell if Art Is Real: A Guide to Spotting Authentic Artwork

Introduction

Authentic art is a valuable investment that can be enjoyed for generations. But with the rise of fraudulent artwork in the market, it’s important to know how to tell if a piece of art is real or not. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you should take to verify the authenticity of a work of art.

Definition of Real Art

Real art is defined as “a work of visual art created by an artist as an original piece of artwork, rather than a copy or imitation”. It is also considered to be an artwork that has been produced by an established artist, and is not a counterfeit or reproduction. The value of a piece of art depends on its authenticity and the artist who created it.

Overview of Problem

There are many different ways to tell if a piece of art is real or not. However, it can be difficult to know where to start when trying to determine the authenticity of a work of art. To make sure you don’t end up with a fake, there are several steps you should follow to ensure that the piece of art you’re considering is genuine.

Research the Artist

The first step in determining whether a piece of art is real or not is to research the artist who created it. Check for information about the artist online, including their biography, exhibitions, awards, and reviews. Look for reputable sources such as galleries, museums, auction houses, and magazines to get an accurate picture of the artist’s work.

Check for Authenticity Markings

Most works of art will have some kind of authentication markings. These can include the artist’s signature, a stamp, or a certificate of authenticity. Make sure to check for these markings and compare them to known examples of the artist’s work. If the markings seem suspicious, it may be a sign that the piece of art is fake.

Compare to Known Artwork

Another way to tell if a piece of art is real is to compare it to known examples of the artist’s work. Look for similarities in the style, composition, colors, and brushstrokes. Pay attention to details such as the shape of the eyes, the position of the hands, or the texture of the hair. If the piece of art looks too similar to other works, it could be a sign that it’s not authentic.

Examine Materials Used

The quality of the materials used to create a piece of art can also be an indication of its authenticity. Good quality canvases, pigments, and frames should be used in the creation of a real piece of art. Look for signs of low quality, such as cheap canvases, faded colors, and warped frames. If the materials used seem suspicious, it could be a sign that the artwork is fake.

Have it Valued by an Expert

One of the best ways to tell if a piece of art is real or not is to have it evaluated by an expert. A professional art appraiser can examine the artwork and provide an assessment of its authenticity. They can also identify any issues with the piece, such as condition, provenance, and attribution. Having your artwork evaluated by an expert gives you peace of mind that you are purchasing a genuine piece of art.

Conclusion

Verifying the authenticity of a work of art can be a daunting task. But with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done. Researching the artist, checking for authentication markings, comparing to known artwork, examining the materials used, and having it valued by an expert are all great ways to ensure that the piece of art you’re considering is genuine. With these tips, you can be confident that you are investing in a real piece of art.