Both art collectors and artists need to know what a certificate of authenticity for artwork means. It’s simply a written statement that proves that the painting/ sculpture/ drawing, etc. is genuine. A Certificate of Authenticity is the official document between an artist or a gallery and a collector that proves its provenance and details about the piece. Artists should issue this document once they sell their art. You can design this certificate in Photoshop or Canva and print it on a thick, high-quality piece of paper, or buy a standard size certificate to fill out by hand. Sign it.
What is a certificate of authenticity for artwork?
This document is a sign of quality, professionalism, and respect shown by the artist to his/her art collector. It’s also a record of provenance.
The certificate of authenticity should include:
- Title of artwork
- Medium
- Dimensions of artwork
- If it’s a print, put Limited Edition # of #
- The purchase date
- Your name and (the artist’s) hand-written signature
- Write the collector’s full name
- Include the artwork’s picture
- Materials (optional). I like to show that I use high-quality art supplies in my work that insures the longevity of my art in comparison to so many other artists who don’t consider it a priority.
- Sometimes I print a matching second page with a story about a sold painting. I think it adds extra dimension to my work and encourages understanding and art appreciation.
I also often include a couple of my business cards, a receipt, and an extra print of the sold piece, or one of my signed art books that’s often a catalog of my artwork the collectors can share with their friends. I value my collectors and offer complementary shipping with these surprise gifts as my way to thank them for their purchase because I’m truly grateful for their support.