- Art Terminology
- Edward Seago 1910-1974:
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Art Terminology
17/04/2009
Art Terminology Clarified
Philip Goodman, from Xanthus Art has put together the following definitions of Art Terminology. You can see how some these terms relate to actual works of art by clicking on the links.
Terms commonly used in the art market with reference to artists' work, including original paintings, drawings, watercolours, sculpture etc.
THE ARTIST'S FULL NAME: Meaning that the work in question is an original work from the artist's own hand. (View our list of named artists)
ATTRIBUTED TO: Meaning that the work could be from the artist's own hand, but indicating a degree of uncertainty.
You can see an example of this in the work attributed to Jean Honore Fragonard
ARTIST'S SURNAME WITH INITIALS: Meaning that the work could be from the artist's own hand, but again indicating uncertainty.
STUDIO OF or CIRCLE OF: Meaning that the work is likely to be from an artist working with, or closely influenced by, the artist in question.
You can see a reference to this in the portrait of Joseph Addison, Circle of Sir Godfrey Kneller
SCHOOL OF: Meaning that the work is by another artist under the influence of the artist in question, either a contemporary or an artist working at a later date.
AFTER: Meaning that the work was executed probably at a later date by another hand and is a copy or an appoximation of the artist's original work.
You can see a reference to this in the portrait of Frances Weston
PROVENANCE: The history, or proof of the background of an object or work of art is known as its 'provenance'.
Provenance relating to items can add to their value. Any documentation relating to the previous purchase or ownership of antiques and fine art should be kept with the item. Here-say can help establish provenance but may not be of significance on its own.
You can see examples of provenance in the Paintings & Drawings section for example the works of Thomas Churchyard
