Note! A good art appraiser will tackle the issue of authenticity “before” attempting to determine value.
In the realm of appraising Chinese and Asian art, accuracy is paramount to avoid costly errors. With a market characterized by its variability and the intricate history behind each piece, the role of a knowledgeable and experienced appraiser cannot be overstated. Here’s why using an unqualified appraisal service can be dangerous, and how expert appraiser Irv Graham stands out in this field.
The Risks of Inaccurate Appraisals
1. Financial Loss: Incorrect appraisals can lead to significant financial losses. If a piece is undervalued, it might be sold for far less than its actual worth. Conversely, overvaluing an item can result in unrealistic expectations and financial disappointment when it fails to fetch the anticipated price at auction.
2. Misidentification: An untrained eye might misidentify a piece, confusing a genuine antique with a modern reproduction. This can have serious consequences, as the value difference between an authentic piece and a reproduction can be substantial.
3. Market Misunderstanding: Chinese antiques often lack a consistent pricing mechanism due to market speculation and varying levels of knowledge. This inconsistency means that an uninformed appraiser might fail to provide a reliable appraisal.
The Importance of Expertise
With over 25 years of dedicated experience, Irv Graham offers accurate appraisals and valuations based on past and current realized prices and market trends. Unlike less expensive services, Irv Graham combines a sharp eye, hands-on experience, in-depth knowledge, and up-to-date research material to ensure the accuracy of his appraisals.
Comprehensive Evaluation: Irv Graham’s service answers critical questions such as:
How old is your item?
Is your item imperial?
Where was your item made?
How much are similar items selling for at auction?
Guaranteed Accuracy: Irv Graham will not undertake any valuation unless he is 100% sure he can deliver an accurate valuation report that he personally stands by. This commitment to accuracy ensures clients receive reliable appraisals they can trust.
Specialized Knowledge: An expert in Chinese jade, for example, may lack the knowledge of someone specializing in Chinese porcelain. Irv Graham emphasizes the importance of tackling authenticity before determining value, a step often overlooked by less knowledgeable appraisers.
Scientific Authentication: For early period pottery, such as Tang dynasty pieces, Irv Graham recommends a Thermoluminescence Test to help ensure authenticity, highlighting his thorough approach to appraisals.
Conclusion
When dealing with Chinese antiques, the expertise of the appraiser is crucial. Inaccurate appraisals can lead to financial loss, misidentification, market misunderstandings, and missed opportunities. Choosing a knowledgeable appraiser like Irv Graham, who has extensive experience and a commitment to accuracy, ensures that your antique’s value is assessed correctly, providing peace of mind and financial security.
If, for any reason, I am unable to determine an item’s age or value, I will not take your money or provide a speculative valuation. I only conduct appraisals that I can confidently stand by, guaranteeing their accuracy before sending them to you. I welcome third-party reviews and expert critiques to ensure the highest standard of accuracy and reliability.
