Prerequisites for Portrait Artist Identification

1. Dimensions of the work: exterior (framed) and interior (unframed)
2. Provenance (history of ownership)
3. Good photographs of the painting
   • In its entirety with frame
   • In its entirety with as little of the frame showing as possible
   • Closeups of major objects, including face and hands, if shown
   • Back
4. Payment of retainer
5. A statement that you understand that compensation will not assure a specific conclusion and that the balance of payment will be paid immediately after the project concludes.

Prerequisites for Portrait Subject Identification

Prerequisites for Portrait Subject Identification are much like the prerequisites for portrait artist identification, but emphasize family history.

1. In addition to good photographs of the painting, please supply
   • As much provenance as possible
2. If a family portrait, please supply:
   • Name, birth date, birthplace as much provenance as possible.  (Maiden and married names for a woman)
   • Family stories
   • Payment of retainer
   • A statement that you understand that compensation will not assure a specific conclusion and that the balance of payment will be paid immediately after the project concludes.