Prior to 1900 many paintings had no signatures. The reasons that we have heard is that women were not allowed to sign paintings. Artist priests in monasteries did not sign paintings. Many artists did not sign paintings until the time that they parted with the painting. Even today, an artist hesitates to sign a painting because that indicates that no more changes are planned for the painting. And many paintings in the eyes of the artist are not, nor are they ever, finally ready. Experts can determine the origination (time, date, school, and technique) of a painting that indicates a particular artist. It is expensive to have that determination done. If the painting could be very valuable it may be wise to have an expert look at it.
Fine art is a portable asset. It is a long-lasting item. Art well done not only is enjoyable to the owner but becomes an item from which memories are attached. Fine art is often salable in different currencies which protects against currency devaluations. Not unlike the stock market and real estate, good fine art has a demand. Through the internet there is now established a market whereby one can determine a range of value for a painting. Auction houses enable art collectors to purchase art from all over the world.
Only yesterday we were told of a man that purchased a large painting from a garage sale. It was all rolled up. He paid less that $60.00. At the auction the purchaser paid $250,000.00.
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