Home      Login


“Life is Short, Art Endures”—Issues for Collectors and Their Heirs  


Author:  Richard M.  Horwood.


Source: Volume 11, Number 01, November/December 2011 , pp.1-7(7)




Family Foundation Advisor

next article > |return to table of contents

Abstract: 

Unlike other tangible property, ownership of art objects typically is not documented through a formal title agreement or deed. Art may carry with it a certificate of authenticity, or assurances regarding its provenance, but at the end of the day there is no universally recognized method for documenting and securing art ownership. Art collectors are left with no choice but to cobble together as much documentation as possible in order to protect their ownership interests.Useful documentation includes items such as the bill of sale, any related import or export documents, personal notes and correspondence, insurance records, and affidavits from prior owners.

Keywords: Establishing ownership

Affiliations:  1: Horwood Marcus & Berk Chartered.

Subscribers click here to open full text in PDF.
Non-subscribers click here to purchase this article. $25

next article > |return to table of contents