Art Expertise & Authentication
Patrick Offenstadt, certified SFEP & CEDEA art expert — Benchmark authority for authentication, secured certificates, and catalogues raisonnés of 19th & 20th century masters.
Patrick Offenstadt
Certified SFEP Art Expert · Author of Benchmark Catalogues Raisonnés
19th & 20th Century Masters Specialist · President of the Gen Paul Committee
Recognized art expert and full member of the Syndicat Français des Experts Professionnels en Œuvres d'Art (SFEP) and the European Confederation of Art Experts (CEDEA), Patrick Offenstadt has dedicated over 30 years of scholarly research to the authentication, cataloguing, and valuation of modern masters. Author of the definitive Jean Béraud (1849–1935) Catalogue Raisonné published by the Wildenstein Institute and Taschen — an internationally acclaimed benchmark cited by major museums and premier auction houses —, he chairs the Official Gen Paul Committee and directs the catalogues raisonnés for Albert Dubois-Pillet and Henri-Edmond Cross. He provides secured certificates of authenticity and advises collectors, estates, foundations, and museums worldwide.
How Does an Expertise Work?
A methodical and documented analysis complying with museum standards and international art market requirements.
Submission of Visuals
Submission of high-definition photographs (front, back, frame, signature, labels, or annotations) with exact dimensions and known provenance.
Scientific & Stylistic Examination
Analysis of brushwork, palette, support (canvas, panel, paper), pigments, and stylistic comparison with verified works by the artist.
Archive & Provenance Research
Examination of historical archives, vintage auction catalogues, studio inventories, and specialized bibliography to trace the artwork's provenance.
Secured Certificate & Registration
Issuance of the official Certificate of Authenticity with detailed description, sealed photo, and registration in the artist's Catalogue Raisonné.
Our Expertise Services
Official Certificates of Authenticity
Issuance of official certificates recognized worldwide by auction houses (Sotheby's, Christie's, Artcurial), customs, insurance companies, and courts.
Valuations & Insurance Appraisals
Rigorous valuation of your paintings, drawings, and watercolours according to current market benchmarks for insurance, estates, divisions, or sales.
Catalogue Raisonné Inclusion
Examination of artworks for formal inclusion in ongoing Catalogues Raisonnés: Jean Béraud (supplements), Albert Dubois-Pillet, Henri-Edmond Cross, and Gen Paul.
Collection Inventories & Estates
Assistance to notaries, bailiffs, wealth managers, and private collectors for complete inventory and valuation of artistic estates.
Request an Expertise or Certificate
Fill in the information regarding your artwork. Patrick Offenstadt will get back to you promptly with an initial confidential review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal standing of an SFEP expert certificate?
The SFEP is the premier professional appraisal syndicate in France. The issued certificate engages the civil and criminal liability of the expert for 30 years. It is recognized by all major international auction houses, banking institutions, courts, and insurance underwriters.
How long does an artwork examination take?
An initial assessment based on photographs is generally delivered within 48 to 72 hours. If the artwork requires in-person physical inspection, frame disassembly, or archival investigation, the timeframe typically ranges between 1 and 3 weeks.
What photos should I provide for an initial review?
To allow an accurate preliminary review, we recommend providing: a sharp overall photo of the front under natural light, a close-up of the signature, a photo of the reverse (back of canvas or panel), and pictures of any labels, customs stamps, or inscriptions.
How to include an artwork in a Catalogue Raisonné?
When an artwork by Jean Béraud, Albert Dubois-Pillet, Henri-Edmond Cross, or Gen Paul is authenticated after examination, it receives an official archive number and is registered in the Catalogue Raisonné database for publication in upcoming volumes and supplements.