Expert: DJ Murphy - 5/30/2008

Question
QUESTION: What percentage from selling (by hand) glass engraving should an agent receive? How to price historical glass engraving?

ANSWER: Hello Nadia,

If the glass is in a gallery...the usual split on percentage is 50/50....but if it is only a person representing you on the open market then the percentage should be between 10% and 25%....

Not sure from your question what category you would fall in.....

Historical glass.......not really much difference.  Best to work out an agreeable split on percentage before turning over any glass works to an agent.

All the best,

dj murphy
www.galleryonemain.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What price can you put on a historical unusual hand-engraving with diamond point? Through the bicentennial, called "Operation Sail 1976" in NY two of my engravings of the official posters of that time were representing the USA in the World Trade Center in the Exhibition: Brotherhood of the Sea,  The engravings are done 6 dimensions ( 3 glass panels of 23 x 18 inch) sits in a base and are illuminated and International Naval Review " The Eagle" Coast Guard Cutter. Also in 1976, a portrait of President G. Ford looking down on The White House with The Capital in left corner (4 dimensions 2 glass panels)
Thank you,
Nadia

Answer
Hello Nadia,

Oh I wish I had the answer for you....but appraisals are not my forte....you might want to contact a local art appraiser...or if you are near New York...check with William Doyle Galleries...or an auction house that specializes in engravings.

dj murphy
www.galleryonemain.com