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The intricate link between art and history is experiencing a renaissance of attention not just from museum curators and historians but from collectors as well. It has been common for each generation to see inviolable historical paintings as rich areas of study and as precious historic objects that must be preserved. This interest has changed the rather prosaic mindset of people and more collectors have embraced the evocative clues about the past through historical paintings. It has created a historic appreciation among the public and is also driving up prices, especially for religious paintings and artwork. Moreover, it has proved that people are not only interested in an extensive collection of antiquities or vintage paintings but also fairly appreciate art about history.
Why Are Historical Paintings Valuable?
Paintings on historical events have soared in value over the last decade, outperforming stocks as an investment and drawing attention from people of all classes. The rarity of work, the prominence of the artist and the significance of the painting is what bestows value. The historical significance can not be simply drawn but is based on years of research and study. This makes the art more unique and creates appeal to the enigmatic events that occurred in the past. Historical painters look to the past, reflect the historical points of reference, and its priorities, then recreate them for the contemporary world. And for collectors, it's as good as seeing the past from the present.
1. Authenticity
Authentic historical paintings drawn by prominent artists have always remained highly collectible. But nowadays, authenticity can be mimicked by digital prints that merely replicate the originals. Real-hand-drawn paintings by renowned artists in the modern era are worth more than a digital imprint of paintings by Leonardo da Vinci. Human drawn paintings of historical events are considered authentic when compared to digitally generated ones and have more value.
2. Provenance
Arguably the most widely bought and sold paintings are related to historical events. For buyers, it's a glimpse into the past and for sellers, it can perhaps be seen from an investment perspective. Even if the art is secondhand, its value never goes down; it only increases based on who the previous owner was. Also, known as an artwork’s provenance, historical paintings are often documented and the owners are listed. A painting that was previously owned by a celebrity or renowned collector can fetch a hefty price tag.
3. Historical Significance
It is quite evident that artists are creative. They can reflect myriad possibilities and diverse perspectives based on historical stories. But for a collector, the historical significance of the painting is more valuable than the artist's perspective, especially when it comes to paintings on historical events. For example, an artist can depict the divine grace of the spiritual Sikh Guru, Baba Nanak in a million ways. The historical significance is when the artist spends weeks, if not months, learning about the relevance and bringing the spiritual teachings to life in Guru Nanak paintings. To viewers, such a true painting helps them contemplate its beauty, consider its meaning, and, often, view it as an inspiration.
4. Quality of the Canvas
The quality of the canvas also affects a historical painting’s value. The canvas envelops the aesthetic world that originates from an artistic mind. It evokes a world where history and creativity are indistinguishable, therefore to keep it as such, the canvas also should maintain durable quality. Historical paintings are kept for centuries, they are passed down to the next generation as heirlooms, and have to withstand wear and tear. Only the finest prints can endure for decades, still holding to the depth, texture, and color created by the artist. Thus, increasing in value as each year goes by.
5. Subject
The essence of an artwork is unique to what the artist is trying to express. As faith and spirituality are becoming more prevalent, paintings on religious motifs are getting more attention. Most importantly, religious paintings idealize, glorify, and bring to life the story of religion. It is a significant way to keep religious teachings and spirituality alive through generations. Art makes it easier for the younger generation to relate to spiritual teachings and historical events. Such collections of paintings are prominent not only among spiritual leaders or religious artifact collectors but also in common households. Thus making a historical painting more valuable and highly collectible, based on its subject.
6. Hand-Signed Premium Prints
Limited edition signed prints are original artworks signed by the artist. This makes the paintings unique and just as valuable as any other artwork. Even though these paintings are limited, fine art prints are more cost-efficient when compared to one-of-a-kind artworks. Making it more alluring for art lovers because the paintings are unique and not that expensive. Emerging collectors can purchase such historical paintings and add diversity to their existing collections. Such religious or historical paintings from critically acclaimed or highly promising artists are sold as autographed prints for a very limited period. This makes the artwork valuable and will only increase in value once the artist becomes more recognized.
Conclusion
Not just historical paintings, any form of art is an asset that increases in value as time goes by. This is why art is considered more valuable than stocks and shares as well. While the stock market has witnessed several episodes of fluctuations, art has showcased market consistency and demand. Thus, making it more highly collectible than any other form of investment. Moreover, the widespread availability of the internet has made it much easier for collectors and art enthusiasts to purchase historical paintings online. The digital world has popularized buying and selling, which has made collecting art even more common among general audiences. Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a painting or historical art, then this is the right time to do it. Signed limited edition artworks are available online and can be purchased easily with just a few clicks. These paintings can become an asset for you, nevertheless, they can be passed to the next generation as heirlooms.