About Jeni Andrews-Fraser Expertise Any questions relating to the art (painting, sculpture, design) and architecture of historical periods from the ancient Greeks to our modern age (roughly 600BC to 2000 AD). Please Note: I DO NOT undertake vaulations for artworks - for these, you need to contact a fine art dealer.
Experience Experience in the area:Course leader/lecturer - art history; Contextual studies lecturer (Foundation Art & Design degree); senior examiner (National UK Board) Organizations: Association of Art Historians
Institute of Educational Assessors
Education/Credentials: MA History of Art (Falmouth College of Art); BA Fine Art
Question I have an old F.M Bennett painting (shape is a bit rough) that was in an old building on the main street of Belle River Ontario when my dad bought it to use as a business office in the late 1950's. It was an old building then. While cleaning it out he stumbled on this old painting. The canvas is stretched over a 10 X 14 wood frame. I photographed the front, back and signature. 'A rare vintage' is inscribed on the back of the frame. Does it have much value ?
Answer Hello Richard - and thank you for your question. I'm afraid I don't (and cannot, over the internet) undertake valuations for artwork. You need to take your painting to a local fine art dealer - one specialising in 19th century paintings - who will be able to advise you regarding the provenance and value of your piece.
There is a resurgence of interest in 19th century paintings in this 'romanticised' vein ... depending on where you are located and the market forces of your area. However, you need to ascertain whether or not your painting is an original or a print - the words 'rare' on the frame are no indicator.
