COULD YOUR PAINTING BE BY JAKOB SMITS?

Previously unknown works by important artists continue to emerge from private collections, estates, inheritances, and long-held family possessions. While authentic works by Jakob Smits may be rare, every work deserves to be evaluated on its own merits rather than dismissed simply because it is unfamiliar or undocumented.

If you believe your painting may be by Jakob Smits, obtaining an independent professional opinion is the appropriate first step.

We have specialized in the authentication of works attributed to Jakob Smits since 2002. We issue Certificates of Authenticity (COAs), Authentication Reports, appraisals, valuations, provenance reports, and provide buying, selling, brokerage, and investment advisory services for collectors, attorneys, insurers, financial institutions, estates, museums, and private clients worldwide.

Getting started is straightforward. Simply send us photographs of the painting together with its dimensions and any information you have regarding its history or ownership. After reviewing the material, we will recommend the most appropriate course of action.

AUTHENTICATION

Is this a Jakob Smits?

From a single photograph of ordinary quality, we can often determine whether a work appears consistent with Jakob Smits's work or whether it clearly does not. A first impression is not always definitive because his production includes paintings as well as drawings, watercolors, pastels, charcoal works, and etchings.

What services do you provide?

We provide authentication, certification, Certificates of Authenticity (COAs), Authentication Reports, appraisals and valuations, provenance research, private sales and brokerage, investment advice, and analytical art market research.

Is it possible to discover a previously unknown Jakob Smits today?

Yes. Paintings, drawings, and etchings by Smits can remain in private collections or family estates for many years, so an unfamiliar or previously unpublished work can warrant serious examination.

Do I need to get my Jakob Smits authenticated?

Yes. Authentication is essential if you wish to sell your work for its full market value. It is also important for insurance, estate planning, charitable donations, financing, and many legal purposes.

Is it complicated to get a Jakob Smits authenticated?

Not for you. Simply send us photographs of the front and reverse, close-up photographs of important details, the dimensions, and anything you know about the painting's history. The investigation itself is our responsibility.

How long does it take to authenticate a Jakob Smits?

It depends on how much is already known about the work when we begin the investigation. In the simplest cases, authenticity can be confirmed within a couple of weeks. More complex cases may require several months.

How much does it cost to authenticate a Jakob Smits?

From the low hundreds to the high thousands. It depends on how much is already known and documented, where relevant archives are located, and whether travel or scientific testing is required.

Can a signature alone prove that a Jakob Smits painting is authentic?

No. A signature can be useful evidence, but it must be considered together with the painting's technique, materials, date, condition, provenance, and other characteristics.

Can an unsigned Jakob Smits painting still be authentic?

Yes. The absence of a signature does not by itself establish that a Jakob Smits painting is inauthentic. Attribution depends on the work as a whole rather than on a signature alone.

What documents help authenticate a Jakob Smits painting?

Any document that mentions, describes, illustrates, or refers to the painting may assist the authentication. Photographs, invoices, correspondence, exhibition records, restoration or conservation reports, insurance documents, auction records, and family papers can all contribute valuable evidence.

Can a Jakob Smits painting be authenticated from photographs?

Yes. High-quality photography is an extremely useful authentication tool and allows us to study important characteristics remotely. When additional evidence is required, we may recommend an in-person examination. We examine works worldwide.

Is it always necessary to perform scientific analyses of a Jakob Smits painting?

No. Many works can be authenticated through research, provenance investigation, analysis, and technical examination. Scientific testing is generally reserved for more difficult cases when questions remain concerning the age or composition of materials.

What if my Jakob Smits painting has no provenance?

Incomplete provenance is common. When provenance is incomplete, authentication relies more heavily on research, technical examination, photography, and, where appropriate, scientific testing.

Do you issue Certificates of Authenticity for Jakob Smits works?

Yes. Upon completion of the authentication, we issue a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) together with a detailed and fully referenced Authentication Report.

APPRAISALS & VALUATIONS

How much is my Jakob Smits painting worth?

We will appraise your painting and determine its value. Principal factors include period, subject, medium, dimensions, condition, provenance, rarity, and current market demand.

SELLING

Can you sell my Jakob Smits for me?

Yes. We specialize in private sales but use every appropriate selling method to obtain the highest possible net price. We manage the process professionally, confidentially, and on your behalf.

Do I need an appraisal before selling my Jakob Smits?

Yes. Your painting should be priced correctly for the country, market, and method of sale. An independent appraisal helps prevent both underpricing and overpricing.

Do I need authentication before selling my Jakob Smits?

Yes. Without authentication, your painting may sell for only a fraction of its potential market value.

Can you help me maximize the selling price of my Jakob Smits?

Yes. Authentication, provenance, valuation, timing, presentation, and the chosen sales method can all influence the final result. We also provide collection management advice designed to maximize value.

Should I restore my Jakob Smits before selling it?

Usually not. Buyers often have their own preferences regarding conservation and restoration. We generally recommend selling the painting in its present condition unless there is a compelling reason to undertake conservation beforehand.

How long does it take to sell a Jakob Smits?

Higher-value paintings generally require more time to sell because there are fewer qualified buyers. Correct pricing, strong documentation, and the appropriate sales method all contribute to a successful sale.

BUYING & ADVISORY

Should I buy a Jakob Smits?

If you enjoy Jakob Smits's work, certainly. If your primary objective is investment, we can evaluate the proposed acquisition and alternative opportunities.

Can you review a Jakob Smits before I buy it?

Yes. We provide independent pre-purchase research and analysis for collectors and investors. We also prepare predictive art market forecasts and Buy-Hold-Sell recommendations.

What should I check before buying a Jakob Smits?

Three fundamental questions should always be answered: Is it authentic? What is its condition? Is the price reasonable?

How can I avoid buying a fake Jakob Smits?

Call us before you buy. An independent review before completing the purchase is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of acquiring a forged or misattributed painting.

Can you advise me on building a collection?

Yes. We advise collectors on the financial aspects of acquisition, ownership, collection management, and eventual sale.

REQUEST A JAKOB SMITS AUTHENTICATION OR APPRAISAL

Whether you require authentication, a Certificate of Authenticity, an appraisal, valuation, provenance research, buying advice, selling assistance, brokerage, or investment guidance regarding a work attributed to Jakob Smits, our specialists are available to assist.

Complete the contact form below or call us at +1 (212) 658-0466 to discuss your work with one of our experts.