Start with clear artist attribution The listing should identify the artist and describe the artwork consistently across title, medium, size and images. A public artist profile and other works by the artist can provide useful context, although they are not substitutes for documentation. Understand what a certificate can and cannot prove A certificate of authenticity can be useful when it is issued by the artist, authorised studio, estate, recognised gallery or another credible party connected to the work. A certificate is not automatically reliable simply because it looks formal. Check who issued it and whether its details match the artwork. Keep transaction records Retain the invoice, payment record, artwork listing, correspondence and any certificate or shipping documentation. For significant purchases, record high-quality photographs and identifying details after receipt. Check edition information for prints and photographs If a work is an edition, the listing should state edition size and the number of the individual copy where applicable. Do not use the term original to imply a unique one-of-one object if the work is actually part of a multiple edition unless the description clearly explains the format. Be cautious with historical claims Claims that a work is antique, historically important, by a famous deceased artist or from a major collection require stronger evidence than an ordinary contemporary purchase. For high-value historical works, specialist provenance research and independent expert advice may be appropriate. Explore art with the information in context Use the Auria gallery to compare artist, medium, dimensions, price and availability on the individual artwork page. Browse Artworks Art for Professionals Common questions Do all original artworks need a certificate of authenticity?Not necessarily, but documentation can be valuable. For a contemporary purchase, a clear invoice, artist attribution and consistent records are important even when a separate certificate is not issued. What is provenance?Provenance is the documented chain of ownership or custody of an artwork. Its importance increases for older, historically significant or high-value works. Is a signed artwork automatically authentic?No. A signature is one piece of evidence, not conclusive proof by itself. What records should I keep after buying?Keep the invoice, listing details, certificate if any, correspondence, payment record, shipping information and photographs of the received work.