Hello Anne,

I must admit that I am very disappointed with the appraised market value. I see multiple works going for 10x from a Gallery based in Joburg. I also confirmed the title directly with the Artist, and he corrected my initial '3 Shamans' title to 'Sisters'. I'm not sure if that would have benefited you in the appraisal.

Hello Matthew,

I do understand your disappointment and I did note that "retail and asking prices may vary" because galleries do typically charge more than fair market value prices for the artworks that they sell.

We've found that it's a better indicator of fair market value to check auction results. Most for this artist come from Strauss & Co. in South Africa: https://www.straussart.co.za/artists/hussein-salim, though there are a few others that I referenced in my valuation.

If you would like, I can increase the "suggested asking price" to more accurately reflect what a piece like this would sell for at a gallery and what you would like to get for it. Please just let me know!

Kind regards,
Anne

Hi Anne,

Please could you do that? Thank you.

Hello Matthew,

I assume that you are referring to the works listed by this gallery: https://themelrosegallery.com/artists/58-hussein-salim/works/11480-hussein-salim-shift-2-2020/ which are priced significantly higher, but the canvases are also quite a bit larger than your piece. Size is an important factor in the valuation of fine art.

This gallery is selling works that measure 35 x 35 cm. for approximately £200 each, which would be in line with my original appraisal: https://elizabethgordon.co.za/hussein-salim

Can you tell me how much you were expecting to have this item appraised for and what you would accept in terms of a minimum offer?

Best regards,
Anne

Hello Anne,

Yes the Melrose gallery would be it.

Thank you for your message and for considering the various factors involved in the appraisal of fine art. I appreciate your thorough analysis.

While I acknowledge the size discrepancy, I believe the value of my original painting by Hussein Salim extends beyond the dimensions. The uniqueness of this piece, its distinctive artistic expression, and the inherent value associated with owning an original work from an artist of Hussein Salim's caliber contribute to my expectation of a higher appraisal.

My expectation was closer to R30,000, taking into account not only the artist's reputation but also the emotional and artistic significance of the piece. I believe the intrinsic value of this artwork, coupled with its potential for appreciation, justifies a valuation that aligns more closely with the artist's overall pricing range.

I am open to discussions and would appreciate your consideration in revisiting the appraisal amount to better reflect the distinct qualities of this original artwork.

Best regards,
Matthew

Hello Matthew,

It is a lovely piece and I'm happy to adjust the suggested asking price to £1200 GBP.

However, considering all factors and the overall market for this artist's work, I do need to leave the fair market value as is. I hope that this is an acceptable compromise for you and please just let me know if there's anything else that I can do!

Kind regards,
Anne

Thank you for your understanding and for your willingness to adjust the suggested asking price for my artwork. I appreciate your consideration in this matter.

In our recent communication, I confirmed the title directly with the artist, and we have decided to officially name the piece 'Sisters.' To align with this update, I kindly request that you adjust the title accordingly in the documentation.

Your support in making this modification is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to continued collaboration.