Antique Painting

The definition of 'antique painting' has been the subject of much heated debate. In a strict constructionist sense, antique art refers exclusively to creative works produced during the Roman and Greek Empires. Paintings, sculptures, and crafts manufactured during the same epoch but outside of these empires may not be considered antiques according to this definition.

A more inclusive definition suggests that antique paintings must date from the 1800s or earlier. That said, other dealers and collectors claim that antique paintings must simply be 100 years old or older. This definition suggests that some works drafted in the earliest years of the 20th century, therefore, may already be considered antiques.

It is almost always more valuable to collect an original antique painting, but some reproductions of famous and rare works can appreciate significantly in value over the years. Thanks to high-end photo technology, it is now possible to take digital reproductions of antique art and trade them with other collectors or even hang them up in museums. These high-resolution pictures are dubbed 'giclees.'

When shopping for antique paintings, check attributions and proofs of authenticity. Some paintings may also come with provenance documents, which describe the chain of ownership. While in general, marks can chip away at a painting's condition and thereby make it less valuable on the market, there have been instances where accidental injuries to particular pieces of art have increased their value. When appraising antiques, consider historical context as well as artistic merit.