Condition reports are the foundation of professional art handling. These detailed documents protect all parties involved in art transactions and transport.
What Is a Condition Report?
A condition report is a comprehensive written and photographic record of an artwork's state at a specific moment. It documents:
- •Overall structural integrity
- •Surface condition (scratches, abrasions, losses)
- •Frame condition
- •Mounting and backing status
- •Previous repairs or restoration
- •Any anomalies or areas of concern
When Are Condition Reports Created?
Before Shipping The shipper documents the artwork's condition before packaging. This establishes the baseline state.
Upon Delivery The recipient examines the work against the original report, noting any changes that occurred during transit.
For Exhibitions and Loans Museums create detailed reports when artwork arrives and again before return.
For Insurance Purposes Insurers may require condition reports as part of claims documentation or policy underwriting.
Elements of a Professional Report
Written Description Using standardized terminology, the report describes every aspect of the artwork's condition. Terms like "stable craquelure," "minor foxing," or "lifting paint" have specific meanings in the art handling community.
Photographic Documentation High-resolution images capture overall appearance and detailed views of any condition issues. Raking light reveals surface texture and damage invisible under normal lighting.
Diagrams For complex damage patterns, annotated diagrams show the location and extent of each issue.
Measurements Precise dimensions confirm the artwork's identity and can reveal warping or dimensional changes over time.
Digital Tools and Standards
Modern condition reporting increasingly uses digital tools:
Photography Standards - Consistent lighting setups - Color calibration targets - Multiple lighting angles - Macro photography for details
Software Solutions Specialized software helps create standardized reports, track changes over time, and share documentation between institutions.
Artliner's Reporting Protocol
Every shipment we handle includes comprehensive condition documentation:
1. Pre-shipping photography and written report 2. Documentation of packaging process 3. Delivery condition verification 4. Secure digital archive accessible to clients
This thorough approach protects your artwork and provides peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
The Artliner Logistics Team
Art Shipping Experts
Expert in art logistics with years of experience ensuring safe transport of valuable artworks across the United States.
