Selling Art Prints - 1Earth Antiques & Appraisals Magazine

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Dear 1Earth Antiques,
Fifteen years ago, I bought a framed woodblock print by Toshi Yoshida at an estate auction. I paid around $25 because it went with the décor in my apartment at the time. Now I can't decide whether to part with the print or keep it. I've done a little surfing of the Internet to see other works by him, but no one is selling one identical to mine. I know little about the art world so I'm not sure how to go about getting the piece appraised and selling it: auction, consignment, or the ever-growing Internet market?
— Arlene H.

Dear Arlene,

Village of Plums
by Toshi Yoshida

Your print is called Village of Plums, 1951. Toshi Yoshida was a second generation woodblock print maker who made prints of abstracts and animals, as well as landscapes like yours.

First of all, you should think about whether you want get your print formally appraised or just get an informal opinion. After all, appraisers charge around $150 per hour, and Toshi Yoshida prints on eBay are selling for at most $200.

For an informal opinion, you certainly don't have to travel too far. Just go to our Get An Appraisal page, fill out a form, and our expert will have an answer for you in just three business days.

But if you want it appraised, you have a couple of options. You can go to the original dealer or you can see an independent appraiser who doesn't have a vested interest in the print.

If you're considering consignment, think about these points: the reputation of the seller; how much he or she charges; the gallery or auction house's marketing tactics; its client base; and does the seller specialize in works like yours. I suggest shopping around before making a decision.

Finally, before you have your print appraised, have a professional remove it from the frame. This step isn't totally necessary, but you'll see if the margins are trimmed. You'll also be able to detect any other flaws hidden by the matting and frame that can affect the condition and value of your print.

To help you find an appraiser, we offer a free referral service. Just fill out the form on our Expert Referral page.

What about you? Got a question for 1Earth Antiques, Collectibles & Appraisals? Send your questions and photos to editor@antiques-art-collectibles.com.