Secrets d'Artistes

Frequently asked questions

Here are the answers to the questions we are asked most often. If yours is not covered, write to us — we will reply promptly.

Artworks and authenticity

Are the artworks offered by the gallery authentic?

Yes. Every work presented by the gallery has been sourced directly from the artist, from their studio, or from a partner whose provenance has been verified. Unless stated otherwise, the work comes with a certificate of authenticity and an invoice issued by the gallery.

What is a certificate of authenticity?

It is a document attesting to the origin and characteristics of the work. It should be kept safely, as it contributes to the work’s traceability and may be requested for insurance purposes, for a transfer of ownership or for a future resale.

What is the difference between a unique work and a limited edition?

A unique work exists in a single example. A limited edition is produced in a set number of copies, each generally numbered — for instance “12/50”. Once the edition is sold out, it is no longer produced with the same characteristics.

Are the works signed?

Whether a signature is present, and where it is located, is indicated on each work’s page. It may appear on the front, on the back, under the base, or on the certificate of authenticity.

Do the stated dimensions include the frame?

Unless stated otherwise, the main dimensions are those of the work alone. When the work is framed, the overall dimensions are given separately.

Are the colours exactly true to the photographs?

We take care to present the works as faithfully as possible. Slight variations may nevertheless appear depending on the lighting used during the shoot and on your screen settings. We can send you additional photographs, videos or close-up views on request.

A specific note about room-setting images: these images are generated by artificial intelligence to give an idea of what the work might look like in a room. The shape, colours and proportions may vary slightly from reality; these visuals are non-contractual.

Choosing a work

Can I get advice before buying?

Yes. Our role is not limited to presenting works: we guide you in your choice, taking into account your taste, your space, your budget and the coherence of your collection.

You may send us a photograph of the wall or room concerned, together with its dimensions. We can then suggest a selection and, depending on the works, produce a simulation showing them in place.

Can I see the work before buying it?

Yes, when the work is available at the gallery. A visit can be arranged during opening hours or by appointment. For a work held in the artist’s studio or elsewhere, we will let you know what viewing arrangements are possible.

Can I reserve a work?

A temporary reservation may be granted for 48 hours, subject to confirmation by the gallery. After that period, the work may be offered for sale again.

Do you offer works suited to businesses?

Yes. We assist companies, professional practices, hotels, restaurants and interior architects in selecting works for offices, reception areas and meeting rooms. We can advise on the selection, on how the works sit in the space, on delivery and, depending on the project, on installation.

Prices, orders and payment

Do the displayed prices include tax?

Prices are shown in euros, all taxes included. Any delivery, customs or installation costs are specified before the order is confirmed.

Why can the price of a work change?

The price of a work may depend on several factors: the artist’s career, the medium, the dimensions, rarity, the number of copies available and the general evolution of the artist’s market. For limited editions, the price may also rise as the edition approaches being sold out.

Which payment methods do you accept?

We accept credit and debit cards, bank transfer, and payment at the gallery.

Is payment in instalments possible?

Instalment payment may be offered for certain acquisitions, subject to approval and depending on the value of the work. Contact us so that we can look into a suitable arrangement.

Can I receive an invoice?

Yes. A personalised invoice is issued for every acquisition. For a company, please send us the registered name, the billing address and the intra-community VAT number where applicable.

Delivery

Where do you deliver?

We deliver within France, across the European Union and worldwide, subject to constraints relating to the dimensions, weight and fragility of the work, to customs regulations and, in some cases, to applicable embargoes.

How are the works packed?

Each work is protected with materials suited to its nature, format and fragility. Large or particularly delicate pieces may be shipped in a reinforced crate or a wooden case.

Is delivery insured?

Yes, shipments are insured while in transit until they are received. The amount and extent of the cover may vary according to the carrier, the destination and the value of the work. The exact terms are communicated before dispatch.

What is the delivery time?

An estimated time is given when the order is placed. It depends on where the work is held, on its packing, on the destination and, for international shipments, on customs formalities.

How can I track my order?

As soon as the work is dispatched, you receive a message containing the available tracking information. For certain works or specialist deliveries, the carrier contacts you directly to arrange an appointment.

Is delivery included in the price?

Delivery costs are calculated separately according to the destination, the format and the weight of the work. The final amount is communicated to you before payment. A specific quotation may be required for sculptures, large-format works or international deliveries.

Will I have to pay customs duties?

For a delivery outside the European Union, import taxes, customs duties or administrative fees may be applied by the destination country. Unless stated otherwise, these costs are payable by the buyer. We recommend checking with your local customs authorities before purchasing.

Can I collect my work from the gallery?

Yes. Collection from the gallery is possible by appointment and free of delivery charges. Proof of identity and, where applicable, the order confirmation may be requested.

Receipt, damage and returns

What should I check on receipt?

Inspect the outer condition of the parcel before signing the delivery note. In the event of impact, puncture or crushing, record precise reservations with the carrier and take photographs before and during unpacking. Keep all packaging until you have checked the condition of the work.

What should I do if the work arrives damaged?

Contact us within 24 hours of receipt, sending us:

  • photographs of the outer packaging;
  • photographs of the inner protections;
  • detailed photographs of the work and of the damage;
  • a copy of the reservations recorded with the carrier.

We will handle the claim with the carrier and inform you of the possible solutions: restoration, replacement where another copy exists, return or refund.

Framing, installation and care

Is the work sold framed?

The work’s page states whether it is sold framed, unframed, or presented in a floater frame. Photographs showing the work in a room are sometimes non-contractual: always refer to the “Framing” line.

Do you offer a framing service?

Yes, we can advise you or propose a frame suited to the medium, to the dimensions of the work and to your interior. A quotation is issued before any bespoke work is undertaken.

Do you offer installation?

For certain destinations and formats, we can arrange hanging or installation by a professional. This service is the subject of a separate quotation.

How should I care for my work?

Recommendations vary according to the medium, but it is generally advisable:

  • to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
  • to keep the work away from sources of heat and humidity;
  • not to use household products on its surface;
  • to handle the work with clean hands or suitable gloves;
  • to keep the certificate, the invoice and the provenance documents separately.

For a fragile or older work, seek the advice of a professional restorer before any intervention.

Can I display a sculpture outdoors?

Only if the work’s page states that it is designed for outdoor use. Resins, paints, metals and varnishes do not all react in the same way to UV light, humidity or frost.

After the purchase

Which documents should I keep?

Keep the invoice, the certificate of authenticity, the provenance documents, photographs of the work and any information relating to its edition or framing.

Should I insure my work?

It may be worth declaring the work to your insurer, particularly when its value exceeds the limits set by your home insurance policy. The invoice and the certificate of authenticity may be requested.

Can the gallery assist me after my purchase?

Yes. We remain at your disposal for any question concerning hanging, care, framing, insurance or the development of your collection.