What is the appraisal of a work of art or collectible?
An appraisal involves examining a movable object based on its objective characteristics (nature, material, technique, period, provenance, signature, or attribution to an artist) in order to establish its identity with certainty. It is a process of authentication, an essential prerequisite for any valuation.
Who conducts the appraisal at Le Floc'h?
Appraisals are conducted by one of Le Floc’h’s auctioneers or by the firm’s specialists. For items requiring specialized expertise (jewelry, fine jewelry, Asian art, rare books, fine wines, etc.), they are assisted by recognized experts in each field.
How does the appraisal process work?
An initial online analysis—free and with no obligation
In most cases, the first step is conducted remotely, based on clear photographs, dimensions, the item’s overall condition, and any information useful for its identification: signature, stamp, mark, invoice, certificate, family provenance, or known and verifiable history. The more precise the information provided, the more reliable the analysis.
Two ways to submit your request:
- Online form: Fill out our online appraisal form; you’ll receive a response within a few days.
- By email: Send your photographs to estimations@lefloch-drouot.fr.
A physical examination at our offices or at your home
When photographs alone are not sufficient to reach a conclusion, a physical examination of the item allows us to refine our assessment. Three options:
- At our offices in Paris’s 16th arrondissement or in Saint-Cloud, by appointment [schedule an appointment in Paris] / [schedule an appointment in Saint-Cloud].
- During our appraisal days, when Maître Le Floc’h, an auctioneer, or a specialist from our firm is available by appointment [schedule an appointment in Paris] / [schedule an appointment in Saint-Cloud].
- At your home, for large items, significant collections, or as part of an estate inventory, in Paris, Neuilly-sur-Seine, Boulogne-Billancourt, Saint-Cloud, Garches, Vaucresson, Ville-d’Avray, Sèvres, Rueil-Malmaison, Suresnes, Versailles, Le Vésinet, Le Chesnay, La Celle-Saint-Cloud, Bougival, Louveciennes, and more broadly throughout the Hauts-de-Seine, Yvelines, and western Paris regions.
Are your items insured during the appraisal?
Yes. All items entrusted to Le Floc’h for appraisal or consignment are insured. In the event of theft, loss, or breakage, you will be compensated up to the lower estimate.
Appraisals in the Context of an Estate
Our firm frequently conducts appraisals of assets in the context of estates, property divisions, or gifts, working closely with heirs, notaries, and family advisors, with the discretion and thoroughness that these matters require. Visit our page dedicated to [estate inventories].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an appraisal and an estimate?
An appraisal identifies and authenticates an object (type, period, artist). A valuation determines its market value, expressed as a low/high range. The first online appraisal at Le Floc’h is free and non-binding.
Is there a fee for the appraisal?
No, the initial analysis based on photographs—whether submitted via our online form, by email, or in person at our offices in Paris and Saint-Cloud—is free and non-binding.
How long does it take to receive a response?
Please allow a few days after submitting your request online or via email.
Do you offer in-home appraisals?
Yes, for large items, collections, or estate inventories, an auctioneer can visit your home in Paris and the western Paris area (Saint-Cloud, Neuilly-sur-Seine, Boulogne-Billancourt, Versailles…).
Are my items insured for the duration of the appraisal?
Yes, all items entrusted to us are insured and covered up to the lower estimate in the event of theft, loss, or breakage.
Does the appraisal apply to all categories of items?
Yes: paintings and drawings, furniture and antique, modern, and contemporary art objects, jewelry and fine jewelry, watches, luxury fashion and accessories, rare books, fine wines and spirits, silverware, Asian art, and collections. See the details of our specialties.