Purchasing & Availability
Is Composition.Gallery safe?
Yes. We have facilitated thousands of artwork sales worldwide. We use a secure, trust-based system designed specifically for the art market to make collecting high-caliber artists as easy as possible.
Do I need to log in to purchase an artwork?
No, you do not need to log in. Simply select the BUY option on the artwork's page and fill in your details. We will contact you promptly to finalize the purchase.
How do I know if an artwork is available for purchase?
Most listed works are immediately available unless marked as Sold or Currently Unavailable. We maintain regular updates on availability. On rare occasions, an artwork may have been sold before the status is updated.
Some items are listed under ‘price on demand’ – why is this?
In the art industry, artworks may be labeled ‘price on demand’ when the value has not been finalized at the time of listing on our website. This is particularly common for pieces by artists who are currently experiencing high demand. The price for these items may be determined and listed at a later date.
Furthermore, the art market is dynamic and subject to frequent changes. Due to this volatility, we may choose not to set a fixed price immediately to remain flexible in response to market trends. Prices for artworks can fluctuate, meaning the value of an artwork listed today might differ tomorrow.
Furthermore, the art market is dynamic and subject to frequent changes. Due to this volatility, we may choose not to set a fixed price immediately to remain flexible in response to market trends. Prices for artworks can fluctuate, meaning the value of an artwork listed today might differ tomorrow.
There are artworks on the site that are ‘private listings’ - why is this?
Certain artworks are listed as 'private listings' to maintain exclusivity or the privacy associated with these pieces. This means that details and images of the artwork are not immediately visible on our website until an explicit request for access has been made. Upon request, we provide interested parties with a comprehensive view of the piece, including an image and information, along with the option to proceed with a purchase.
Am I able to view an artwork in person prior to purchasing it?
Due to the international locations of our artworks, in-person viewings are not always possible. If a work is located near you, we may arrange an appointment. Please contact us with your request. If an appointment is unavailable, you can use our zoom and view in a room features for a detailed view.
Will I receive an invoice for my purchase?
We will provide you with an electronic invoice via E-mail once your order is confirmed.
Shipping & Delivery
How are the shipping costs determined?
Shipping costs are not included in the listed price due to the various factors that can influence the final cost. The weight, value, and dimensions of the artwork, as well as its origin and destination, all play a role in determining the shipping fees.
If you would like an estimate for shipping a specific item, please contact us at [email protected], and we will be happy to assist you.
If you would like an estimate for shipping a specific item, please contact us at [email protected], and we will be happy to assist you.
Do you ship items internationally?
Yes, we are able to ship most unframed artworks to any destination across the world – if you are unsure about a particular destination, please contact us.
Which courier do you use for shipping?
Most artworks are transported via express couriers such as UPS, DHL, FedEx and TNT – the exact courier depends on the item’s origin as well as its final destination.
We will always endeavor to offer you the most economical service.
We will always endeavor to offer you the most economical service.
Can I ship an item using my own courier?
Of course. We will discuss and arrange the practical aspects - such as the pick-up location and time - when we finalise your purchase.
Am I able to pick up a purchase myself?
Many of our artworks are located and displayed in various galleries around the world. If you are local to the gallery hosting your chosen artwork, please contact us. We will facilitate a connection with our colleague gallery that is currently housing the artwork. This will allow you to coordinate directly with them to arrange a suitable date and time for you to collect your purchase.
Will I receive updates about my delivery?
Once the artwork has been collected for delivery, we will provide you with a unique tracking number.
Additionally, we strongly recommend signing up for email and/or SMS notifications directly through the courier to receive real-time updates on the status of your delivery.
Additionally, we strongly recommend signing up for email and/or SMS notifications directly through the courier to receive real-time updates on the status of your delivery.
Can the courier leave the shipment at my door if I’m not there to receive it?
No, this is not something that can be facilitated – for the purposes of security and liability, all artworks require a signature upon receipt.
What happens if I miss an attempted delivery?
Most couriers will attempt to deliver your purchase a second time and/or leave a note. If you miss an attempted delivery, you can contact the courier, quoting the unique tracking number, and organise a new delivery time.
If you are unable to receive your purchase, the item will be sent back to the seller and you will be liable to pay any additional shipping fees. If, for any reason, you will not be able to receive your artwork in person, please contact us immediately at [email protected]
If you are unable to receive your purchase, the item will be sent back to the seller and you will be liable to pay any additional shipping fees. If, for any reason, you will not be able to receive your artwork in person, please contact us immediately at [email protected]
How long will it take for my purchase to be delivered?
We always endeavour to get any purchased items sent out as soon as possible, but we must first make sure that all shipping documentation and packaging have been sufficiently prepared.
Please also note that various factors, such as the origin and the final destination of the artwork, have a significant bearing on the delivery timeframe. Overall, most artworks are dispatched within 5 working days once the full payment has been received.
Please also note that various factors, such as the origin and the final destination of the artwork, have a significant bearing on the delivery timeframe. Overall, most artworks are dispatched within 5 working days once the full payment has been received.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Our team operates Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm CET. Most orders are shipped within 10 working days, though often much sooner. Please be aware that courier delays can occur, which are beyond our control, and customs clearance may also cause additional delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience in these situations.
Am I able to combine multiple purchases into one shipment?
We offer combined shipping options depending on the location of the artworks. If multiple pieces you wish to purchase are housed in the same location, we can facilitate consolidating them into a single shipment for your convenience.
How to unpack an artwork
Please take care when unpacking and handling artworks – to ensure your artwork remains in great condition during unpacking, we recommend the following steps:
1. Before unpacking, ensure you thoroughly check the parcel for any external damages – if you happen to find any, please take several clear images from a number of angles.
2. Remove each individual layer of packing material slowly and carefully – ensure that the outermost layer is removed prior to proceeding to the inner layers. A sharp utility knife can be used to cut the tape on both the outer and inner packaging; the blade should be only just long enough to cut cleanly through the tape.
3. Always use gloves when handling artworks. If you remove the artwork from the provided packaging without wearing any gloves, there’s a chance of irreparable damage to it in the form of visible fingerprints or stains.
4. Thoroughly check the entire contents of your shipment – multiple artworks may be delivered in one package, or the parcel itself may contain additional components or the appropriate documentation. If your work arrives in a wooden crate, you may need to use standard drill bits in order to remove any screws from the lid; never attempt to pry the lid open. Please also note that larger crates may require more than one person to be safely opened.
If your artwork is packaged in a tube, avoid pinching or pulling on the work itself – try to keep a hold on the inner layer of protective paper in the tube when removing the artwork.
5. Once your artwork has been unpacked, please confirm the condition it has arrived in. If you feel that the work you have received differs from the online description, please send images of the item alongside the original packaging and a detailed summary of its current condition and any discrepancies to [email protected] - we kindly ask that any contact of this kind is made within 5 days of receiving the work, and that all original packaging is kept for reference.
1. Before unpacking, ensure you thoroughly check the parcel for any external damages – if you happen to find any, please take several clear images from a number of angles.
2. Remove each individual layer of packing material slowly and carefully – ensure that the outermost layer is removed prior to proceeding to the inner layers. A sharp utility knife can be used to cut the tape on both the outer and inner packaging; the blade should be only just long enough to cut cleanly through the tape.
3. Always use gloves when handling artworks. If you remove the artwork from the provided packaging without wearing any gloves, there’s a chance of irreparable damage to it in the form of visible fingerprints or stains.
4. Thoroughly check the entire contents of your shipment – multiple artworks may be delivered in one package, or the parcel itself may contain additional components or the appropriate documentation. If your work arrives in a wooden crate, you may need to use standard drill bits in order to remove any screws from the lid; never attempt to pry the lid open. Please also note that larger crates may require more than one person to be safely opened.
If your artwork is packaged in a tube, avoid pinching or pulling on the work itself – try to keep a hold on the inner layer of protective paper in the tube when removing the artwork.
5. Once your artwork has been unpacked, please confirm the condition it has arrived in. If you feel that the work you have received differs from the online description, please send images of the item alongside the original packaging and a detailed summary of its current condition and any discrepancies to [email protected] - we kindly ask that any contact of this kind is made within 5 days of receiving the work, and that all original packaging is kept for reference.
Payment & Pricing
What forms of payment are accepted?
We understand that purchasing a piece of art is a significant and personal experience. To keep the process straightforward and personal, our site avoids the use of registration forms, shopping carts, or credit card entries. Once you confirm your purchase, we will issue a gallery invoice along with instructions for a bank wire payment, available in EUR, USD, GBP, or AUD.
In some instances, we can accept cash or credit card payments; however, a 3% fee applies to these transactions, or 5.2% if using PayPal. (USD)
Please note that full payment is required before the artwork can be shipped.
In some instances, we can accept cash or credit card payments; however, a 3% fee applies to these transactions, or 5.2% if using PayPal. (USD)
Please note that full payment is required before the artwork can be shipped.
What currencies do you accept as payment?
We can accept payments in the following currencies: EUR, USD, GBP and AUD.
How is the price of an artwork determined?
Our prices will either match, or be lower than the price you would expect to find in galleries.
Pricing is determined by a number of different factors; among the factors that affect pricing are: the size of the artwork, the medium, the popularity of the artist (as well as their rating at the point of sale), the overall quality of the work and the importance of the work in terms of an artist’s overall oeuvre.
We take great pride in the accuracy and fairness of our pricing system and we also encourage our sellers to be realistic in their expectations when setting a price for an artwork.
Pricing is determined by a number of different factors; among the factors that affect pricing are: the size of the artwork, the medium, the popularity of the artist (as well as their rating at the point of sale), the overall quality of the work and the importance of the work in terms of an artist’s overall oeuvre.
We take great pride in the accuracy and fairness of our pricing system and we also encourage our sellers to be realistic in their expectations when setting a price for an artwork.
Am I able to negotiate the asking price of an artwork?
Many of the artworks we feature are offered at a fixed price, reflecting our dedication to providing competitive rates through efficient partnerships with galleries, publishers, and artists. Our pricing strategy is designed to keep operational costs low, enabling us to work with smaller margins and offer prices that are often equal to or even lower than those found in traditional galleries.
For select artworks, we also welcome offers below the listed price. In these instances, each offer is carefully evaluated based on our pricing structure and margin considerations. Additionally, some pieces may include a ‘make an offer’ option, allowing you to propose a price that suits your budget.
For select artworks, we also welcome offers below the listed price. In these instances, each offer is carefully evaluated based on our pricing structure and margin considerations. Additionally, some pieces may include a ‘make an offer’ option, allowing you to propose a price that suits your budget.
Am I required to pay import duty on my artwork?
Import duties and taxes on artworks vary depending on the destination country's regulations. Within the European Union, shipments between member countries typically do not incur import duties. Additionally, many countries apply reduced VAT rates to artworks; for example, Germany imposes a reduced VAT rate on imported art, and the United Kingdom applies a 5% VAT rate on such imports .
However, regulations can change, and we cannot guarantee specific tax rates or amounts for our listed items. Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting your local customs office for the most current information regarding applicable duties and taxes before making a purchase.
However, regulations can change, and we cannot guarantee specific tax rates or amounts for our listed items. Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting your local customs office for the most current information regarding applicable duties and taxes before making a purchase.
Artwork Authentication & Services
How can I be sure that an artwork is authentic?
We take exceptional care in selecting the sources for our artworks, ensuring they rank among the most reputable and reliable in the art world. We take pride in guaranteeing that every artwork listed on Composition.Gallery comes from trusted and esteemed origins.
Each piece available for sale is signed by the original artist, and most are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA). These certificates, endorsed by the artist, their representative, or directly from the source, serve as a legal document along with the invoice to confirm the artwork's authenticity. The certificate is typically sent to the buyer after the artwork has been delivered.
Each piece available for sale is signed by the original artist, and most are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA). These certificates, endorsed by the artist, their representative, or directly from the source, serve as a legal document along with the invoice to confirm the artwork's authenticity. The certificate is typically sent to the buyer after the artwork has been delivered.
Do you offer appraisals?
Yes, we offer the service of art valuations for modern and contemporary art. Our service includes an estimate of the current price, supported by thorough research and market analysis. The fee ranges from 100 USD to 150 USD per artwork, depending on the complexity.
Do you provide framing services for purchased artworks?
A framing service is not something that we currently offer due to the heightened risk of damage during shipping; transportation costs would also increase due to the additional weight of a frame. However, if you are interested in framing your purchased artwork, please feel free to get in touch with us and we will source a reputable framing service local to you.
Returns & Issues
Am I able to return or cancel an order once completed?
Artworks sold through Composition.Gallery are final and cannot be returned or cancelled once the order is confirmed. All sales are considered complete at the time of purchase.
However, if your order arrives and differs from its description or has been damaged during shipping, please contact us immediately. Kindly note that any such claims must be made within 5 days of receiving the artwork.
However, if your order arrives and differs from its description or has been damaged during shipping, please contact us immediately. Kindly note that any such claims must be made within 5 days of receiving the artwork.
How can I return my item?
Once an order has been finalised, we are not able to facilitate any returns or cancellations on any of our listed artworks.
However, if you feel that your purchase has been damaged during transportation, or is unlike its original description, then please contact us within 5 days of receipt at [email protected]
However, if you feel that your purchase has been damaged during transportation, or is unlike its original description, then please contact us within 5 days of receipt at [email protected]
What should I do in the event that my artwork is damaged, or not what I ordered?
Although our partners are experienced in shipping artworks securely and correctly, there is still a possibility that damage may occur during transportation.
If you notice that the packaging is damaged in any way, please include details on the courier’s delivery report and send us the details, alongside images, by emailing us at [email protected].
The same applies to any damage found on the actual artwork or cases in which the item shipped differs from the item you expected – all claims must be made within 5 days of receipt.
If you notice that the packaging is damaged in any way, please include details on the courier’s delivery report and send us the details, alongside images, by emailing us at [email protected].
The same applies to any damage found on the actual artwork or cases in which the item shipped differs from the item you expected – all claims must be made within 5 days of receipt.
Account Features
Can I set an alert for a particular artist?
Yes. Visit the artist or artwork page and click the Update Me button to receive notifications when new works become available.
I will be providing personal details when purchasing an artwork with Composition.Gallery - what will happen to this data?
The security and confidentiality of any personal data is of utmost importance to us and we can assure you that this data is never passed on to any third parties. Our site is secure and all personal information provided will be handled in a secure and private manner and will not be visible to any other users of our site. For more detailed information on how we handle personal data, please read our Privacy Policy.
Submission Process
For Galleries
With over 20 years of experience and collaboration with 200+ galleries worldwide, Composition.Gallery is always interested in forming new partnerships. If you’re a gallery or publisher looking to work with us, please email:
[email protected]
[email protected]
What types of artworks is Composition Gallery interested in acquiring?
Composition Gallery focuses on acquiring first-tier works by established artists from 1940 onwards, including original works and limited-edition prints. Each artwork must have a traceable provenance and condition, be signed by the artist, and numbered if part of an edition. We prioritize pieces that align with our commitment to authenticity and quality, reflected in our 'established' artists list. If you believe your artwork meets these criteria, we invite you to submit the 'upload' form on our website.
Which artists’ works do you purchase?
We are keen on artworks by established artists listed on our website under the 'established' artist section. https://www.composition.gallery/artists/
Can I offer artwork from any geographical location?
Yes, we consider artworks from all over the world.
However, the feasibility of acquisition also depends on the artwork's price relative to shipping costs, especially for lower-valued pieces where high shipping costs may not be justifiable.
However, the feasibility of acquisition also depends on the artwork's price relative to shipping costs, especially for lower-valued pieces where high shipping costs may not be justifiable.
How can I submit my artwork for consideration to Composition Gallery?
If you are interested in selling your artwork to Composition Gallery, we invite you to submit details for our consideration. Please use the upload form on our ‘upload’ page, providing comprehensive information including images, the artwork's condition, its location, and whether it is framed. Our team of specialists will review your submission to ensure it aligns with our gallery's collection standards and focus. We may reach out to you for additional information to fully assess the artwork's fit with our curated selection.
What happens after I submit my artwork for consideration?
Upon submission, we'll evaluate your artwork based on provenance, price, and alignment with our collection. If interested, we will discuss the purchase price. This review process typically takes one to two weeks, subject to the volume of submissions.
Terms & Conditions
As an artist, am I able to sell my own work to Composition.Gallery?
Currently, we do not accept direct submissions from artists. Our acquisitions are primarily focused on works already in circulation within the art market, from collectors, galleries, and publishers.
How is the price for an artwork determined?
Artwork pricing is individually assessed, considering market reports, auction history, artwork condition, and provenance. Factors like size, medium, artist popularity, and the artwork's significance are taken into account. We strive for fair pricing and encourage realistic pricing expectations.
How do I get paid if you decide to purchase my artwork?
Payment for purchased artworks is made via bank transfer, adhering to international financial laws and regulations. We ensure a secure and compliant transaction process for each acquisition.
Who is responsible for shipping costs if my artwork is purchased?
Should Composition Gallery decide to purchase your artwork, we will discuss and agree upon the shipping arrangements and costs as part of the acquisition process.
Authenticity Assurance
At Composition Gallery, authenticity is paramount. All artworks submitted must be original, signed by the artist, and legally owned by the seller. If part of a limited edition, the artwork should be numbered. A traceable provenance is required, and certificates of authenticity are highly encouraged to accompany each piece.
Prohibited Items
We do not accept artworks that:
- Lack clear provenance or authenticity.
- Are replicas, unauthorized reproductions, or counterfeit.
- Contain materials from endangered species or restricted items under international laws (e.g., ivory, certain woods).
- Violate any ethical considerations or legal restrictions.
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