What Photos Should You Request Before Buying Art Online?

Request photographs that answer four questions: Is this the exact object? What is it made of and how is it constructed? What condition is visible? What marks, labels, frame, and hardware will arrive with it? At minimum ask for a straight-on full front, full reverse, all edges and corners, signature and inscriptions, labels and stamps, frame front and back, hanging hardware, a scale reference, and close-ups of every disclosed issue. For textured paintings add raking light; for reflective surfaces add angled views; for sculpture add a full rotation, base, joins, and attachments. Ask when the images were made and whether they show the current work.

The full front should show the complete object without a room mockup, decorative crop, or mat obscuring its edges. The reverse should connect supports, labels, inscriptions, stretcher or panel, and repairs to the same object. Include a handwritten date or agreed reference in one current image when copied listings are a concern.

For editions, photograph the edition number, signature, publisher or workshop marks, blind stamps, and sheet edges. For a diptych or multi-part work, show all components together and separately.

Request corners, edges, surface, tears, dents, scratches, cracks, lifting, staining, foxing, abrasion, planar distortion, losses, repairs, patches, fills, and retouching that the seller observes. Ask for a scale in close-ups so the size of an issue is not ambiguous.

A photograph documents appearance under particular light. It does not reveal every structural problem or prior treatment. Pair images with a dated written statement or report and ask who inspected the work.

For canvas, show tacking or staple edges, stretcher or strainer, keys, backing board, labels, and frame fit. For works on paper, show sheet edges where safe, mounting or hinges if accessible, mat and backing, glazing, and any contact with the glazing. For sculpture, show base, underside, joins, welds, attachments, foundry marks, and stability points.

Do not ask an untrained seller to dismantle a fragile frame or remove a work from a mount. If hidden construction is consequential, arrange a qualified inspection.

Request dimensions in writing and an image with a ruler or familiar neutral object when scale remains unclear. Ask for neutral-light images and, if color is crucial, a reference card. Screens and camera processing still vary; no photograph guarantees exact color.

A room image helps with scale but should not replace documentation. Ask whether it is a photograph, rendering, or composited mockup.

Photograph the frame’s corners, surface, glazing, spacers, backing, hardware, and any damage. Confirm whether the frame is included and whether it is safe for shipping. Photograph the packed object and outer package before dispatch when possible; you should photograph condition and packaging again at arrival.

• Complete front and reverse
• Edges, corners, signature, inscriptions, labels, and edition marks
• Every condition issue with scale
• Material-specific construction and frame views
• Current date, dimensions, color caveat, and room image status confirmed

The image set is adequate when it identifies one object, makes the seller’s condition statement inspectable, and reduces the uncertainties that matter to you. Pause when only promotional crops or mockups are available, the reverse is withheld without explanation, or significant issues are described but never shown.

If you are considering a particular work, Artwork Research can organize the public evidence around the artist, seller, artwork, price, and transaction, show the gaps, and identify what to verify next. It is private, source-linked decision support—not authentication, appraisal, or an investment recommendation.