Where to Buy an Artwork: 5 Places to Know

Five routes to art

Choose the buying channel that fits your project

The pleasure of searching, comparing and discussing an artwork is part of the purchase. Whether you buy in person or online, the seller should make the artwork and the transaction easy to understand.

1. The Art Gallery

A gallery is a valuable intermediary between artist and buyer. Its selection can make artists visible, provide a professional context and help you compare techniques, formats and styles. The pleasure of looking, hesitating and exchanging with a gallerist is part of the experience.

Founded in 2001, Carré d’artistes has a network of galleries and represents a community of more than 500 artists. Its original works are presented online and in galleries, with authenticity information and transport insurance included for the buyer under the applicable terms.

Our guide to buying in a gallery explains what to ask before paying.

2. Online Art Sales

Before buying, check the seller identity, artist biography, high-quality images, exact dimensions, technique, condition and authenticity documents. Also confirm the complete price, payment method, delivery, transport insurance and return policy.

• Authenticity: ask how the certificate of authenticity and invoice are supplied.
• Description: check images, dimensions, support, condition, signature and framing.
• Delivery: confirm packaging, tracking and transport insurance.
• Returns: return rights vary by country and contract; review the current terms before ordering.
• Selection: favor platforms that identify and curate their artists rather than offering unclear listings.

Carré d’artistes presents its online catalogue with the same aim as its physical galleries: make original art easier to discover, compare and purchase with confidence.

3. The Art Dealer

This channel can suit experienced collectors who want to build a coherent collection, locate a specific artist or acquire works with a defined market history. Before working with a dealer, clarify their role, remuneration, independence, the seller represented and the services included.

Ask for written information about the artwork, price, fees, provenance, condition, delivery and documents. A dealer can provide valuable expertise, but the buyer should understand the contractual relationship before committing.

4. Auctions

There are public auctions organized by an auction house and online auction platforms that connect sellers and buyers. Before bidding, study the lot description and condition report and, when possible, attend the preview to see the artwork in person.

Set a maximum total budget and keep to it. The winning bid may be followed by buyer’s premiums, taxes, shipping, insurance and storage. Our auction buying guide explains the preparation steps.

Before bidding

The hammer price is not the complete cost

Read the conditions of sale and calculate every additional charge before you register. If the delivery arrives damaged, make precise reservations, state that it is received under reservation and photograph the closed parcel before opening it.

5. Art Fairs

Art fairs are useful for seeing what different galleries present and for developing your eye through comparison. They can help you:

• discover the offer of many galleries in one location;
• identify emerging artists before their public recognition grows;
• create relationships with galleries and dealers;
• compare works, techniques, formats and styles in person.

International events include Art Basel, Frieze, TEFAF, Paris+ and The Armory Show, while local and regional fairs can be equally valuable for a first discovery.

Compare the Five Buying Channels

Availability, fees, authenticity documents, delivery and returns depend on the seller, country and contract.

Frequently Asked Questions