Exploring The Wallace Collection: A Treasure Trove of Art and History

I recently had the chance to visit one of London’s hidden gems, the Wallace Collection, and it was an experience I won’t soon forget! Located in the heart of the city, within the luxurious Hertford House, the collection offers a spectacular display of art, furniture, and historical artifacts. From world-renowned paintings to the finest examples of French 18th-century furniture, this museum has something for everyone. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking to indulge in some history, the Wallace Collection is a must-see. Here are a few highlights that truly stood out during my visit:

1. The Laughing Cavalier by Frans Hals

This portrait, one of the collection’s most famous pieces, captures the spirit of the subject with incredible skill. The expression of the Laughing Cavalier is so vivid, it feels as if he might step right out of the frame. Frans Hals’ ability to bring life to his work through color, texture, and detail is on full display here.

2. The Swing by Jean-Honoré Fragonard

A quintessential Rococo masterpiece, Fragonard’s The Swing is as whimsical and romantic as it is beautiful. It perfectly embodies the playful elegance of 18th-century France, with soft pastels and flirtatious charm. The story behind this piece adds to its allure—an irresistible depiction of light-hearted mischief.

3. A Dance to the Music of Time by Nicolas Poussin

This stunning allegory of life’s stages by Nicolas Poussin is both complex and moving. It portrays four dancing figures, representing the passage of time and the ever-turning wheel of life. The depth of symbolism, combined with the harmonious composition, makes this painting a standout in the collection.

4. Venetian Views by Canaletto

Transport yourself to 18th-century Venice through the eyes of Canaletto. His Venetian views are stunning in their accuracy and attention to detail. The way he captures light and the architecture of Venice’s canals makes it feel as though you’re standing on the banks of the Grand Canal.

5. Rembrandt’s Self-Portraits

No visit would be complete without admiring the works of Rembrandt. His self-portraits in the Wallace Collection showcase his genius in manipulating light and shadow. The emotional depth and introspection in his works are unparalleled, offering an intimate look into the life and mind of the artist.

History Lovers, Rejoice: The Armory

For those who prefer a more historical approach, the Wallace Collection boasts an impressive Armory. From elaborate swords to intricately designed suits of armor, it’s a history lover’s dream. One of the highlights was seeing Henry VIII’s armor—a piece of British history that’s just as grand as you’d expect. The attention to detail in these items is awe-inspiring, reflecting both the artistic and practical aspects of warfare from centuries past.

The Beauty of French Decorative Arts

One of the things that sets the Wallace Collection apart is its incredible range of French 18th-century furniture and decorative arts. The level of craftsmanship is unparalleled, with ornate designs that tell stories of opulence and luxury.

Jean-Pierre Latz’s Writing Table

This beautiful writing table, attributed to Jean-Pierre Latz, is a perfect example of Rococo elegance. It features exquisite carvings and delicate gilt-bronze mounts, showcasing the high level of detail that went into furniture design during this period. The curves and intricate elements of this piece reflect the lighthearted and decorative nature of Rococo.

Sèvres Porcelain Collection

The Sèvres porcelain on display is equally mesmerizing. Known for its rich colors and intricate detailing, the porcelain collection adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to the museum’s offerings. These pieces were highly prized in French aristocratic circles and continue to captivate visitors today.

Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Art Lovers

The Wallace Collection offers an incredible journey through art, history, and design, spanning centuries of European culture. Whether you’re captivated by the dramatic portraits of the Old Masters or the delicate craftsmanship of French furniture, this museum has something for everyone. If you’re ever in London, make sure to visit and take in the beauty and splendor of these timeless works, the visit is entirely free!

How to Buy Art Online

Many traditional galleries have gone online

How to buy art online:

-Consider your overall budget; buy fewer works at a higher individual price 

-Find a trustworthy source: a gallery or auction house whom you trust will guarantee your purchase, speak to an art advisor, or ask an appraiser for a professional opinion of value before committing to the sale

-Consider buying fraud protection insurance for larger purchases

-Develop an entire dossier around the work before buying; ask the right questions

-Ask the seller to provide many images, include close ups of signature or any areas of condition concerns, include images of the backside of the work as well

-Condition and authenticity are important for value; ask for a report, get a certificate

-How do you know if a price is fair? Either buy with a big, well-known gallery who will support their artists by advancing their careers and increasing the value of their artwork, or you can buy more speculatively- you might get a better deal when buying, but the trajectory of the artist can be more uncertain

-Buy what you love, buy with your eyes first, but then buy with your ears; listen to your research

 -We have entered into a new era; online auctions are here to stay, enjoy the newfound transparency in the marketplace

Selling art online:

-Consider getting an appraisal by a trusted certified professional before approaching a dealer, gallery or third party; know the value of your piece/collection first

What is a Certified Appraiser?

ABOUT APPRAISING

What is an appraiser? 
An appraiser is a professional with the expertise and credentials needed to evaluate property. While there is no license for personal property appraisers (as with real estate), appraisers should have taken the Uniform Standards in Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) course within the past 24 months. USPAP is the guidelines set for for appraisers by The Appraisal Foundation. Read more about USPAP here. 

Why hire an Appraisers Association member? 
The Appraisers Association of America is an international organization based in New York City with members in cities across the country as well as in Canada, Europe and Asia. In a field with no degree and no license, membership in the Appraisers Association of America is one of the most important credentials to look for in a personal property appraiser. Our members are USPAP compliant and known for the highest standards of ethics, conduct and professionalism. Professional members of our Association are in one of four categories: Certified Member, Life Certified Member, Accredited Member, and Life Accredited Member. Certified is the highest level of membership and a Certified Member always has a designation of AAA after his/her name indicating that they have particular expertise in a specified area.

About the Appraisal Profession 
In the appraisal profession, there are five major categories: personal property, real property (real estate), business valuation, machinery and equipment, and gems and jewelry. Although the organization has members in several of these areas, the majority of our members are personal property appraisers specializing in the fine and decorative arts, jewelry, and household contents. Their areas of specialization range from paintings and drawings, to clocks and watches, to furniture and ceramics. Members frequently specialize in more than one area, and many are certified experts in more than one area. Our members provide appraisals for purposes of insurance, estate tax, charitable donation, equitable distribution, liquidation, purchase, and sale..

*from the Appraisers Association of America website. For more info click here.

Which Art Appraisal is Right for You?

An Appraisal Assumes the Piece is Authentic

When working with an appraiser, keep in mind there is a difference between an appraisal and an authentication. When you hire an appraiser for an opinion on an authentication, you are asking the appraiser for his thoughts on who created the piece. After the creator of the piece is confirmed, an appraisal value is made with the assumption that the piece is real.

Appraisal Values Vary Based on Its Intended Use

Depending on why you need an appraisal—an insurance claim versus selling a piece, for example—you need a different valuation for each scenario.

Most people use four main types of appraisals:

Fair Market Value

Fair market value (FMV) is the price that the piece would sell between a buyer and seller on the open market. The FMV is generally what is used for charitable donation values and inheritance tax.

Replacement Value

Replacement value is the cost it would require to replace the item with a similar work of equitable condition purchased in an appropriate market place in a limited amount of time. This value is the highest value of an artwork and is used for insurance coverage.

Market Value

Market Value is what a buyer is willing to pay to a seller, with no obligation to transact, in the competitive and open market.

Liquidation Value

Liquidation value is the value of the piece if forced to sell in limited conditions and possibly time constraints.

File Appraisals With Your Documentation

When you receive an appraisal document, make sure you keep this in your records. This is the number insurance companies and estate planners will use to file a claim or set up your art estate. It can also function as a dated proof of ownership, in addition to your bill of sale.