Glossary
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the language of the art world. Navigating this industry requires a unique vocabulary that bridges the gap between creative expression and technical precision.
Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
A formal, legally binding document that verifies the provenance, authorship, and legitimacy of an artwork or collectible. Issued by the living artist, their estate, a designated expert committee, or an authorised gallery/dealer, the COA acts as the artwork’s official 'passport' and is crucial for validating its market value.
Logistical & Practical Significance
Provenance Tracking: In art logistics and collection management, a COA is treated as high-security documentation. It must travel and be stored separately from the artwork itself to prevent fraud.
Insurance & Valuation: Insurers, auction houses, and customs officials frequently require a COA to verify an item's identity before issuing coverage, clear international borders, or establishing a basis for financial appraisal.
Key Components: A standard COA typically features the artist's signature (or estate stamp), the title of the work, date of creation, medium, dimensions, and, where applicable, the edition number (e.g., 3/25) or a unique security hologram or QR code.