A Buyer's Guide To Henry Moore

Renowned English sculptor and artist Henry Moore is best known for his pioneering of modern sculpture. Born in a small mining town in Yorkshire in the 1890s, Moore went from training as a teacher to being one of the most innovative and influential sculptors of the 20th century. His abstract silhouettes and sculptures of great mass carved from bronze and stone have established him as an icon in the modern art world, and is still an influential artist to this day.

Accompanying his sculptures in his lifelong portfolio is an assortment of pieces varying from sketches and drawings to textiles and prints. His works commonly depict abstractions of the human figure, often with hollow or pierced spaces - making them unique depictions of the natural form.

Henry Moore’s influence on British art cannot be overstated.

His innovation in the sculptural sphere through his experimentation with materials of great mass and his commitment to abstraction and expressionism paved the way for a new generation of sculptors and artists. Moore’s work consistently and confidently challenged the traditional notions of form and body, and his influence can be seen in a large span of art movements, including Abstract Expressionism in the 1950s and the Pop Art wave of the 1960s. In both sculpture and sketch, Moore's artistic practice was influential and engaging and has had a lasting and profound impact on various disciplines.

Moore was also a strong advocate and pioneer of public art, passionate about integrating art into public spaces and amongst complimentary architecture. He collaborated with many designers and architects on projects that were iconic and prominent many years on.

It could be said that Moore’s influence on British art is a microcosm of his wider impact on the art world. His mark left on the history of Modern Art, and his unwavering belief in the power of sculpture still remains strong and resonates with artists today.

As a prominent artist of the 20th century, Henry Moore offers a compelling investment opportunity in art history. Despite the passage of time, the value of Moore's works has not diminished. In fact, the recent auction record of £26.3 million for Reclining Figure: Festival (1951) at Sotheby's New York in 2022, surpassing his previous record of £24.7 million at Christie's London in 2016, highlights the enduring appeal and increasing value of his art. With a consistent pattern of significant growth, reaching its peak in 2021, Moore's art market presents an enticing prospect for investment. Collectors can be confident in the lasting value and impact of Moore's works.

Investing in and building a collection of Henry Moore prints can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour. But to succeed in having an attractive portfolio, careful planning and consideration must be taken in stride.

Start Small

If you are new to collecting Moore artworks, starting with smaller, less expensive pieces, such as prints or drawings, before moving on to larger and more valuable sculptures is advisable.

Research

Before investing in Moore’s works, it’s important to research and gain an understanding of his style, significance, and the context in which his works were created. This will help to make informed decisions when selecting pieces for your collection.

Expert Advice

Consult with experts in the art market, such as art dealers, auction house specialists, and curators, who can provide valuable insights into the authenticity, provenance, and condition of Moore's works.

Consider Condition

When acquiring a work by Henry Moore, pay attention to its condition, as it can significantly impact its value. Look for works that have been well-maintained and have minimal damage or restoration.

Diversify

Consider building a diverse collection that includes works from different periods and styles of Moore's career, as well as works by other artists who have influenced or been influenced by Moore.

Henry Moore's prints and editions offer valuable opportunities for art collectors and assessing their worth involves a meticulous evaluation process. Edition rarity plays a significant role in determining value as fewer prints result in higher demand and scarcity and rare prints often appreciate in value over time.

Provenance and authenticity act as influential factors in a work's value as well. Signed pieces command higher prices, and documented ownership history adds value. Works with reputable provenances, such as those from esteemed collections or exhibitions, carry increased worth.

Lastly, the condition of a print greatly impacts its value. Pristine pieces without damage or wear are more valuable, while those in deteriorated or poorly preserved states experience depreciation.

Henry Moore was a prolific printmaker, producing an extensive body of work that included lithographs, etchings, woodcuts, and linocuts. Among his most popular prints are those that reflect his signature style of organic forms and abstraction, showcasing his fascination with the human figure, nature, and the landscape. Below are a few of his most popular to note:

When authenticating Henry Moore prints and editions, there are key considerations to ensure their legitimacy. Provenance plays a vital role, as tracing ownership history back to the original artist not only enhances authenticity but guards against tampering or forgery.

The quality of the print itself is another important aspect. Look for indicators like paper type, printing method, and signatures or edition numbers. Moore's prints are known for their high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, so any signs of inferior production may indicate a counterfeit.

Seeking guidance from experts in the field is crucial. Galleries, auction houses, and independent appraisers well-versed in Moore's artwork can offer valuable insights and expertise in verifying authenticity as their professional opinions strengthen the authentication process.

Henry Moore’s prints are made using high-quality paper, which is comparatively more durable against damage. Nonetheless, it is critical to meticulously assess the print's condition before purchase, as any damage could decrease the print's value and potential return on investment.

Signs of potential damage in prints may manifest as tears, abrasions, or blemishes on the paper. These blemishes may appear as brown marks resulting from iron oxidation within the paper or the presence of mould spores. Additionally, uneven tonalities may arise from prolonged light exposure, while fluctuations in humidity can lead to bending or warping.

Should you have inquiries regarding the condition of a print prior to investing, we encourage you to reach out to us at MyArtBroker. Our team of experts is here to provide further assistance and address any concerns you may have.

The secondary market offers a swift avenue for acquiring Henry Moore prints through private collectors or reputable sources like auction houses and private brokers such as MyArtBroker. As Moore no longer produces new prints, staying informed about the auctions where his prints are being offered is crucial.

Auction houses are recognised for their trustworthy specialists who can provide valuable insights into the authenticity, condition, and background of the desired Moore print. However, auction houses charge a buyer's fee, which can reach 25% of the hammer price, and buyers are responsible for shipping costs.

Online platforms such as eBay provide an opportunity to purchase directly from private collectors at a relatively lower fee. However, caution must be exercised as unregulated platforms carry risks of counterfeit prints and fraudulent sellers. Consider your level of confidence and expertise in the market before opting for such marketplaces.

MyArtBroker presents a secure and streamlined option, blending the convenience of online transactions with the expertise of an auction house. Your personal broker will work closely with you to locate the desired Moore print within your budget. Our extensive global network of collectors, via our Trading Floor, ensures authenticity verification, condition inspection, and post-sale shipping arrangements.

Working alongside a specialised broker such as MyArtBroker can provide numerous advantages when seeking to acquire your initial Henry Moore print. Our brokers possess a wealth of expertise and understanding in the art market, enabling them to assist you in navigating the intricacies of selecting and procuring a print that aligns with your preferences and financial considerations.

Our Network

One of the advantages of working with MyArtBroker is our extensive network of collectors and sellers, including private individuals and institutions. Our Trading Floor platform connects buyers and sellers securely and efficiently, making it easier to find the right print at the right price.

Dedication to Quality

Collecting Moore prints with MyArtBroker offers peace of mind regarding authenticity and condition. We work with trusted and reputable experts to authenticate prints and ensure they are in the best possible condition before they are offered for sale. Additionally, our brokers can advise on the storage and maintenance of your print to help ensure its long-term value.

Tailored Service

Our team comprises dedicated brokers who will work with you to find the piece you’re after for the price you’re looking for. We understand that each collector has unique needs and preferences, so we provide a personalised service tailored to your requirements.