A certificate of authenticity is a document guaranteeing the authenticity of an artwork. It confirms that the artwork has been created by the artist associated with it.

The primary purpose of a Certificate of Authenticity is to verify the creator of the artwork and ensure it is not a forgery. It provides assurance that the artwork is genuinely created by the stated artist and not a random reproduction or imitation falsely attributed.

Should you want to resell an art piece or insure it, a Certificate of Authenticity helps to assess the current and future value of the artwork.

It can actually make the artwork easier to sell. A Certificate of Authenticity is a highly regarded and accepted way to verify an artwork.

The main elements of a certificate of authenticity are:

• An image of the artwork
• Name of the artist who created the work
• The title of the work
• The year(s) it was made and/or completed
• The technique used
• The artwork’s dimensions
• A statement of authenticity
• Whether or not it is a limited edition and if so, the edition number
• Signature and date

The certificate can only be issued by:

• The artist or their heirs
• An online or physical art gallery which should be a confirmed dealer or agent of the artist
• An auctioneer
• An art dealer
• An art expert or professional, like a scholar or art historian.