Electronic Resources for Art Research

The Seattle Art Museum is unable to authenticate or positively identify an object or the creator of a work.

This site answers the question "How do I find information about the value and authenticity of a work of art, book, map, or collectible?" It's a one‐stop‐shop.

Other Price/Authentication Resources

Appraisers Association of America
The oldest not-for-profit professional association of personal property appraisers. Its objective is to develop and promote standards of excellence in the profession through education and professional ethics.

The ADAA is a nonprofit membership organization of the nation's leading galleries in the fine arts. Founded in 1962, the ADAA seeks to promote the highest standards of connoisseurship, scholarship and ethical practice within the profession.

Artfact
Provides information on upcoming auctions and auction categories. Additional services for those who register include auction prices and access to view and bid on auction items. Registration is free.

icollector.com
Makes information on current and past auctions available to the public. Auction items can be browsed by category. Registration on the site is free and necessary to bid in any of the advertised auctions.

International Society of Appraisers
The ISA is a nonprofit, member-driven association. Its members include many of the country's most respected independent appraisers, consultants, estate liquidators, auctioneers, gallery owners and dealers.

The National Antique & Art Dealers Association of America
The NAADAA is a nonprofit trade association of America's leading antique and art dealers, pledged to safeguard the interests of those who buy, sell or collect antiques and works of art.

Sotheby’s
Sotheby’s is one of the world's preeminent fine art auctioneers, in business since 1744. Auction information, past and present, is available. Visitors to the site can set up their own mySothebys membership account to participate in bidding.

Christie’s
Founded in 1766, the auction house Christie’s conducted auctions and private sales totaling $5.1 billion in 2008. Information is available on past, present and future auctions. Joining Christie’s allows you to track lots, view condition reports, place bids and more.

Bonhams & Butterfields
A house of experts in many fields, Bonhams & Butterfields specializes in the appraisal and sale of fine art, antiques and decorative objects in virtually every auction category. Information is available on past, present and future auctions. Bonhams & Butterfields hosts "auction appraisal events" throughout the US.