Engaging A2Z Valuers for Art Appraisal — The Practical Process
How to initiate an art appraisal engagement with A2Z Valuers, establish the correct valuation purpose, confirm the required valuation date, and receive a clearly defined scope, fee estimate, and turnaround.
How to Initiate an Art Appraisal Engagement
Contact A2Z Valuers at the Connaught Place, New Delhi office to discuss the collection or individual work requiring appraisal.
The Initial Brief Covers
- Number and type of works
- Appraisal purpose — insurance, income tax, estate, donation, pre-sale, or acquisition due diligence
- Required valuation date — current or a specific historical date
- Required timeline for the completed appraisal
Scope, Fee & Turnaround Confirmation
Scope
The works, appraisal purpose, valuation standard, and documentation requirements are defined.
Fee Estimate
The professional scope is reviewed and an appropriate fee estimate is confirmed.
Turnaround
The expected delivery timeline is established according to the appraisal type.
Physical Examination
Physical examination is required for significant single-work appraisals. A team visit can be arranged for full collection appraisals.
Standard Appraisal Turnaround
Typical timelines begin from the relevant physical examination, inventory completion, or commissioning point, depending on the appraisal format.
Single-Work Income Tax Certificate
FMV certificate for gift or capital gain, from physical examination.
Insurance Collection Schedule
For collections of approximately 10–20 works, from physical examination of the collection.
Pre-Sale Appraisal
Timed to meet auction house submission deadlines.
Estate Collection Appraisal
For large collections, from completion of the physical inventory.
Retrospective Appraisal
Section 55(2)(b) valuation at 1 April 2001 for standard PAG and contemporary works. Specialised categories may require additional archive research.
Donation Appraisal
Section 80G contemporaneous appraisal, commissioned by appointment.
Collection Management Standing Arrangement
For collectors who retain A2Z Valuers on an ongoing collection management basis, the relationship is formalised through an annual retainer.
Periodic Collection Revaluation
Regular review and revaluation of the collection so that values remain aligned with current art market conditions.
New Acquisition Documentation
New acquisitions can be documented when notified, creating a current record for valuation, provenance, condition, and cost basis.
Purpose-Specific Certificates
Availability for specific income tax, estate, donation, insurance, and other appraisal requirements arising during the year.
One Continuous Documentation System
The retainer keeps the collection’s documentation current without requiring the collector to restart the engagement for every new certificate.
Discuss Your Art Appraisal Requirement
Tell us the purpose, collection size, valuation date, and required timeline. A2Z Valuers can help define the appropriate appraisal engagement.