Expertise & Search for Authenticity

An “Expert in Art Authentication” and graduate of Université Panthéon-Sorbonne Paris II, Annette Douay brings her expertise, in partnership with the Laboratory of Molecular and Structural Archaeology (LAMS, UPMC Paris Sorbonne), to serve both institutions and private clients.

Thanks to this partnership with LAMS–Paris Sorbonne, L’Atelier du Temps Passé is the only restoration workshop in France to have established a collaboration with a university laboratory.

Femme aux cheveux blonds et lunettes, portant un pull noir, manipulant du ruban adhésif dans un atelier ou un espace créatif, avec des étagères contenant des livres, des matériaux et des fournitures.

Technical and Scientific Analysis of Artworks

Technical imaging (direct and indirect white light, raking light, transmitted light, microscopy, observations under ultraviolet and infrared, and radiography), complemented by scientific imaging (infrared at different wavelengths and X-ray hyperspectral imaging), gathers a comprehensive set of information about the pictorial techniques specific to the artwork and the artist.

A graphological expertise (conducted by an international specialist) can also be employed.

Based on the data provided by the technical and scientific imaging, a technical-scientific dossier is compiled, which can, if applicable, lead to a certificate of authenticity for the analyzed artwork.

Façade d'une librairie appelée Atelier du Temps Passé, avec de larges fenêtres en verre encadrées de bois, décorée de guirlandes de Noël, située dans un bâtiment en briques et en pierre, avec une bannière suspendue en haut comprenant une reproduction d'œuvre d'art.

The Role of the Expert

The role of the expert is multifaceted. They can act as a general advisor but also undertake specific tasks, such as:

  • Verification of attribution

  • Assessment of the artwork’s condition

  • Estimation of damage or loss

  • Conservation-restoration evaluation

  • Accuracy of insurance value

  • Preparation of Condition Reports before and/or after the transport of artworks, and more.

Why Consult an Expert?

  • Is this painting truly by that painter? What is its current condition? What might its present value be?

  • Is this painting really in excellent condition? And is it worth the asking price?

  • Is the signature authentic?

  • Is that true? Is it from that period? Or more recent?

  • Is your pictorial heritage insured at its fair value?

  • Is this pictorial heritage in good condition? Do the paintings require restoration work? What should be prioritized? What would the cost be? Are they being preserved in the best possible conditions?

  • What is the extent of the damage to your artistic heritage? Is restoration feasible? Are the compensation amounts proposed by your insurance company fairly assessed?

  • Was the restoration work carried out in accordance with professional ethical standards? Has it undergone devaluation?

Do you want to have an artwork analyzed or have its authenticity established?

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