Provenance, in the art market, refers to the complete documented history of an artwork’s ownership, from its creation by the artist to its current owner. A strong provenance establishes the authenticity and legitimacy of a piece, significantly affecting its value. It typically includes a chronological list of all previous owners, galleries, and exhibitions where the artwork was displayed. A clear and unbroken provenance assures collectors that the artwork is not stolen, forged, or misrepresented, making it a crucial factor in art valuation and transactions.
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