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What Should Be on an Art Invoice?
An art invoice should identify the buyer, seller, exact artwork, price, date, currency, taxes, fees, payment status, and material transaction terms. It should be specific enough to distinguish this object from every other work.
Why this question is harder than it looks
The invoice is often the foundational acquisition record. Add the artist, title, date, medium, support, dimensions, edition, signature, frame, inventory number, and image where appropriate.
A practical way to decide
- Check legal names and contact information for buyer and seller.
- Match object details to the listing and physical work.
- Itemize price, discount, tax, shipping, framing, and other charges.
- Record payment method, date, balance, and transfer of ownership.
- Attach or cross-reference condition, certificate, return, and shipping terms.
What this does not establish
An invoice records what the seller states and what the parties agreed. It does not independently authenticate the object or replace provenance and condition evidence.
Next step
Check an artwork to organize public evidence about a specific listing. The tool provides research context, not authentication or appraisal.
Sources
- Buy Now Marketplace Conditions of Business for BuyersSotheby's
- Art Appraisal ServicesInternal Revenue Service