How to Read an Auction Catalogue Entry | Antique Repair Shop

Auction catalogues compress attribution, date, materials, dimensions, provenance and condition into a small space. Every qualifier matters.

What to do

Separate factual observations from opinion. Terms such as “by,” “attributed to,” “workshop of,” “circle of,” “style of” and “after” express different confidence levels.

Before you commit

Request the full condition report, additional photographs and clarification in writing. Check whether measurements include mounts, frames or extended leaves.

Keep the record

Keep the catalogue entry, invoice and correspondence together; they become part of the object's future provenance.

Trusted references

[BADA: Buying antiques](https://www.bada.org/advice/buying-and-selling-antiques/buying-antiques)
[CINOA: Code of Ethics and Charter](https://www.cinoa.org/about/code-of-ethics/)

This guide is general information, not legal, financial, insurance or valuation advice. Terms and consumer rights vary by location and sale method.

Continue learning

Watch practical examinations and restoration work on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).