Design
Updated
by
Hélène
1 - Expertise VS authentication
2 - Difference between stamp, signature, labelling and foundry mark
3 - Difference between "in the taste of", "attributed to" and "type"
4 - Tips for creating the perfect ad
1 - Expertise VS authentication
What is expertise, exactly?
An expertise is a physical examination of an object by an expert. The expertise results in a certificate of authenticity.
And what about authentication?
An authentication is the examination of an object carried out from photos, dimensions and the description provided by the owner of the item. It enables the expert to authenticate a piece (or not), to appreciate its appearance, and to detect a number of defects in the object.
And what do you guys do at Selency?
At Selency, we are all about authentication, not expertise. Our sellers send us photos of their item, its dimensions and description, and then we share it all with the experts.
It would be impossible (technically and geographically) to transport objects all over France to have them appraised in person.
That’s why we don’t issue certificates of authenticity, but the words "authenticated by our experts" prove that our experts have validated the model, the accuracy of the information provided, and assessed its characteristics by mentioning any defects.
2 - What’s the difference between stamp, signature, labelling and foundry mark?
Stamp
When a maker uses a tool to indent the material, this is known as stamping. A stamp is the marking that results from stamping.
Signature
When the artist signs their work with their own hands, using a stylus or a paintbrush, for example, it is called a signature. This means there’s been an actual manual action on the part of the maker (or artist, as you like).
Labelling
When a paper or metal label with information about the object is affixed to the work, this is known as labelling.
Foundry mark
When the author or maker has affixed a mark to the mold used to create their work, this is known as a foundry mark. This mark is in the form of an indentation or relief, and all items produced using this mold bear the same indication.
> If your item has one of these 4 markings, remember to add photos to your ad. Our experts will use them to authenticate it.
3- What is the difference between "in the style of", "attributed to" and "type"
“In the style of”
When we say that a piece of furniture (or a painting, or whatever) is "in the style of", it means that the piece of furniture was not designed by the person referenced, but that its maker was inspired by them. The final piece of furniture will include creative references to that original artist, even though they weren’t actually involved in the creation process.
“Attributed to”
When we say that an item is "attributed to" someone, it means that we assume that it was made by that artist thanks to certain creative elements. But this remains an assumption, as there is often no historical documentation to back it up, or formal testimony from beneficiaries or collaborators to prove who the real creator was.
“Type”
When we say that an object is "of a type", it means that it has all the characteristic features of a category of objects. For example, when we say "a tubular armchair of the cantilever type", we mean that this armchair has the characteristic features of the cantilever common to a whole group of tubular armchairs mainly designed in the 1930s (Breuer Cesca, Mies Van Der Rohe, Brno, etc.).
> When you send us your ads, we may change them slightly, such as removing the name of the designer, the maker or an element mentioned above. It doesn’t mean we don’t love it! It simply means that our experts do not have a document attesting to the fact that it is indeed a piece by the designer mentioned.
However, if you have historical documentation, an invoice or a period magazine attesting to this attribution, do not hesitate to send it to us by e-mail (but please note that links to other websites won’t work). This will enable our experts to identify your objects as accurately as possible.
Rest assured that even without a reference document, the objects can still be published, but without attribution.
4 - Selling a designer’s piece? Our tips for creating the perfect ad.
Title: “Model" armchair by "designer(s)" edited/manufactured by "name", "year of creation".
Photo: add photos of the item from all angles, close-up photos of defects, close-up photos of the markings and photos in context (if there are no markings, don't hesitate to specify it in the description).
Description: describe the actual condition of the item (do away with the "wear and tear consistent with age" clichés), mention any real defects (in its original state, scratches, chips, tears, in good condition, etc.). To avoid returns, customers need simple, clear ads, so avoid prose (remove bibliographies from ads, for example).
When ads have clear and honest information, customers don’t get lost in pointless details and sales soar!
Price: offer prices that are lower than new items (except for special editions). Customers prefer to buy a slightly more expensive lamp that comes with a guarantee, so you have to do everything you can to convince them to choose your items!
