Guide
Certificates of authenticity
Not every original comes with a formal certificate. What matters is clear documentation from the artist about what you are buying.
From the gallery
What a certificate can include
Title, medium, dimensions, year, artist name, and a statement that the work is original (or the edition details).
Some artists also note signature placement and care instructions.
If there is no paper certificate
Ask for written confirmation in your message thread: uniqueness, materials, and sale date.
Keep invoices, emails, and photos of the signature — they form a practical provenance trail.
Be wary of vague claims
Authenticity is the artist’s responsibility. The marketplace does not invent certificates for listings.
If something feels unclear, ask before you pay.
FAQ
- Is a CoA required?
- Not always. Many living artists provide one on request; others confirm details in writing.
- Does the platform issue certificates?
- No. Ask the artist who created the work.