As much as we would like to accommodate the multitude of requests for Appraisals about specific Hirschfeld pieces, we have a dilemma: If your piece was not purchased at our Gallery, the only way we can be sure of what you have, and its value, is by seeing the work in person. Otherwise there is no way for us to know whether, for example, the image in question is a drawing or a lithograph, is the real thing or a copy, has a genuine Hirschfeld signature or not. Unfortunately, a photograph cannot establish with certainty its medium or true identity.

We can only render an opinion when we have held a work in our hands. It is unethical for us even to give a rough estimate.

Sadly, forged Hirschfelds abound. For example, lets talk about eBay. Sadly, eBay is filled with ersatz Hirschfelds. We are constantly asked to render opinions as to the legitimacy of items listed there for sale. The same is true for Hirschfeld works acquired from other galleries.

The work involved in Authentication and Appraisal is deeply labor-intensive from the time your piece arrives until its safe return to you. In addition to the cost of Packaging and Shipping in each direction our fees are $350 per piece for unframed works, and $750 per piece for framed works. Appraising a framed work includes the unframing and reframing of the work into your original frame and matting. However, if upon unframing your work we find the matting and/or backing is inconsistent with archival standards, we will contact you immediately to suggest replacement with archivally-sound materials.

You may also be interested to know that our Gallery has a Restoration department that restores and conserves works of art and documents on paper.