Services

Appraisals prepared for the purpose that requires them.

Every appraisal begins with a single question: what will this report be used for? The answer determines the standard of value, the scope, and the form of the report itself. Engagements are accepted nationally, wherever the collection is located.

01

Insurance Appraisals

Standard of value: Retail Replacement Value

Insurance appraisals establish the cost to replace a work with another of similar kind and quality in the retail market where it would most likely be replaced. They’re used to schedule fine art and personal property on homeowner’s or specialty policies, and to substantiate claims after loss, theft, or damage.

  • Itemized schedules for scheduling on a fine arts or homeowner’s policy
  • Post-loss and damage claims documentation
  • Periodic updates (typically every 3–5 years) as markets shift

02

Estate & Probate Appraisals

Standard of value: Fair Market Value

Estate appraisals establish fair market value as of a date of death or alternate valuation date. Working closely with attorneys, executors, trustees, and families, these reports are prepared to withstand the scrutiny of tax authorities and to guide equitable distribution among heirs.

  • Federal and state estate tax filings
  • Equitable distribution among beneficiaries
  • Trust administration and gift-tax planning

03

Donation & Charitable Appraisals

Standard of value: Fair Market Value

Charitable-contribution appraisals of art and personal property valued above statutory thresholds require a qualified appraisal prepared by a qualified appraiser. My reports are structured to meet the requirements of IRS Publication 561 and to support IRS Form 8283.

  • Non-cash charitable contributions above $5,000
  • Reports formatted for Form 8283, Section B
  • Coordination with donee institutions when needed

04

Auction & Market Consulting

Advisory, not appraisal

Not every question calls for a full USPAP appraisal. Consulting engagements are for collectors weighing what to sell, where to sell it, and what to expect — with the same comparables research that grounds my formal reports, delivered as advice rather than a signed report.

  • Sale-venue recommendations (auction house, dealer, private sale)
  • Pre-consignment estimates and reserves
  • Deaccession planning for collections

Areas of Specialty

What I appraise.

English, Continental and American Furniture and Decorative Arts

English, Continental and American furniture, silver, ceramics, and objets d'art — period through 20th century.

19th Century, Modern and Contemporary Art

Paintings, works on paper, prints, and photographs — 19th century through today.

Sports Memorabilia

Vintage and modern trading cards, signed pieces, and game-used items, alongside programs, tickets, equipment, and other general memorabilia.

Wine & Spirits

Cellars, single bottles, and specialty collections — market-informed and provenance-aware.

Get Started

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