​​Ellery H. Kurtz - American Art Appraisal


Fine Art Appraiser of

American Art

Specialists in art appraisal of 19th and early 20th Centuries    

Certified Member,  Appraisers Association of America, Inc.

​USPAP compliant through September, 2020

Fees for written art appraisal


The fee for a written art appraisal is never based upon the value of your art. It is based strictly upon a set hourly fee required for research and report writing in addition to any travel expenses incurred which is always agreed upon by signed contract prior to the undertaking of any appraisal. A formal written appraisal may require or warrant a personal visit to inspect the artwork.

Two (2) original signed copies of the appraisal with digital images will be furnished upon completion of the report to you and to you only. A digital read-only copy on a flash drive will be furnished in addition to the printed report.

The general amount of time required for each painting or object being appraised is normally 3 - 4 hours. Each work must be individually reviewed, researched and compared to similar works of art either currently on the market with dealers or auctions houses as well as compared to works having been sold in recent years from galleries and auctions. Final evaluations are based upon all the information gathered as well as: historical importance; condition; aesthetic quality; current market conditions and the personal experience/knowledge of the appraiser.


  • A fee of $300.00 per hour for time spent doing actual inspection, research and report writing.
  • For individual works or large projects a flat fee at a discounted rate can be quoted.
  • $50.00 per hour for any travel time incurred outside of New York City.
  • Reimbursement of all travel and out of pocket expenses incurred for travel outside of New York City.
  • An advance payment of 50% of the estimated fee and/or expenses is due prior to the commencement of the appraisal inspection.


Payment methods: Personal check, bank check; certified check and or wire transfer are accepted.  No credit cards.

Digital images included in the schedule of appraised works of art - no charge.