Lion in Winter

So, I have an oil that I want to sell. Long story, but I would rather have the cash than the painting. It isn't Sotherby's/Christie's type quality, just an early to mid 19th century, large, unsigned (as far as I can see) marine painting of some ships messing about off what appears to be the south coast of England.

Has anyone here ever unloaded a painting in the U.S? And if so, did it go by auction or a straight sale? I know I could pay to get an appraiser in, but looking for some general experience from others since I'm sure they aren't cheap and I don't think I've got a fortune wrapped up in this painting, exactly.

Any experience anyone?

scrubbedexpat097

Two words.....Antique Roadshow

Philgr

Call your local auction house - they should be able to tell you what they think they would get for it. Of course, if you sell it at auction there are no guarantees and most auctioneers are reluctant to accept items with a reserve but once they have given you an estimate you can decide whether you want to risk it or not.

The other option is a consignment store that specializes in art (some galleries will do this too) but, if you don't know what it's worth, it will be hard to set a price.

Lion in Winter

Don't think I didn't think of it! But it's huge, heavy and the show isn't coming anywhere near me, sadly.

Lion in Winter

I've been having trouble finding a local auction house that is anywhere in between top of the line stuff and people's old junk. I think it would be likely to do better among collectors of British marine art (they are British naval ships) - but they don't seem to be very thick on the ground in the midwest.

I will just have to try harder at finding an appropriate auctioneer, or even marine art specialist of some kind. Auction houses take a pretty fat cut, too.

sir_eccles

Call your local art museum they may be able to recommend appraisers or galleries or dealers or have someone on staff who can help.

Cape Blue

try eBay - http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=...=p3286.c0.m359

Sally Redux

They always seem to be worth a bomb on the Antiques Roadshow - I think you should get it appraised LIW in case it turns up on the show later and you're kicking yourself!

Lion in Winter

Too iffy. I have no idea what it's worth, and it's large and very heavy, so shipping would be a bit of an issue. Also there is nothing to stop the buyer from changing his/her mind and sending it back to me.

Lion in Winter

Sadly it's really unlikely to be worth a bomb, but probably more than I'm willing to risk on ebay. I just need to find a reliable appraiser who doesn't cost an arm and a leg, and will give me some pointers on how to unload it.

Lion in Winter

Ah, now why didn't I think of that. We actually have a decent museum here and everything. Thanks.