Carnegie Heart © Jim Dine 1986
Jim Dine
22 works
Key Takeaways
Jim Dine's prints have shown consistent market strength, with individual works routinely fetching between £2,000 and £20,000. In 2021, The New Building (2013) achieved a record price of over £80,000 for an individual Dine print at auction. Authentication requires meticulous examination of paper quality, printing technique, and provenance, and reference to Dine’s multi-volume catalogue raisonné. Given the artist's penchant for experimental techniques and mixed media, condition assessment is paramount to your print’s value. Strategic timing, such as selling during major retrospectives or when interest in Pop Art surges, can optimise returns.
Jim Dine’s work transcends easy categorisation. He is recognised as a pivotal figure in the American Pop Art movement of the 1960s, although his artistic output encompasses painting, sculpture, and performance, as well as printmaking. His works on paper are characterised by bold imagery, often featuring recognisable motifs such as hearts, bathrobes, and tools, rendered with a distinctive blend of representational and abstract elements. This guide aims to navigate the market for Dine’s prints, offering insights into valuation, authentication, and selling strategies.
Dine's artistic vision was shaped by his early experiences working in his family's hardware store, which instilled in him a fascination with everyday objects. He drew inspiration from diverse sources, including Abstract Expressionism, Dada, and his own psychological experiences. Dine's printmaking practice is noteworthy for its technical diversity and innovation. He has explored a wide range of printmaking techniques, including lithography, etching, drypoint, and woodcut, often combining multiple methods in a single work to create prints that defy traditional classification.
How Much Do Jim Dine Prints Sell For?
The market for Jim Dine's prints reflects the artist's enduring popularity and significance in contemporary art. His work, though often abstract, captures familiar objects and icons that are relatable throughout everyday life, ensuring that every collector feels a distinct connection. Prices can vary significantly based on factors such as rarity, condition, size, and the specific series to which a print belongs. Dine's most sought-after print series, such as his iconic Tools, Robes, or depictions of Pinocchio, can command substantial sums. Individual prints from these popular series typically fetch between £2,000 and £20,000, while complete portfolios have sold for over £40,000 at major auctions. A set of 10 Winter Tools (1973-1989), for example, sold for £48,468 at Sotheby’s New York in 2000.
The record price for an individual Dine print is held by The New Building (2013), which sold in Hong Kong for £87,247 in 2021, more than six times its high estimate. The value of this print can be attributed to several factors: it features Dine’s well-known heart imagery and textured surface, is a woodcut print with etched and hand-drawn elements, and, at over 160 x 120cm, is a relatively large print.
Dine’s unique take on the self-portrait also proves continually popular with collectors. Prints of his Painted Self Portrait (1970) sold for £17,380 in 1992 and £28,000 in 2006, with stencil versions of the same image selling for slightly less. There is no definite set rule regarding the popularity of a Dine print based on its age. Early and late prints both stand an equal chance of achieving a high sale; instead, value is reflective of how typical a print is of Dine’s style.
How Do You Authenticate a Jim Dine Print?
The process of authenticating a Dine print typically involves a combination of provenance research, technical analysis, and expert evaluation. The most thorough authentication can include paper and ink analysis, as Dine often used high-quality, archival papers and inks which can be scientifically verified, and advanced imaging techniques to examine the work’s underlying structure and materials. This level of investigation can also reveal any unknown restoration work that may have taken place.
Establishing the provenance of your print requires an examination of all documents related to its history. Any certificate of authenticity, exhibition history and catalogues, sales receipts, or notes from the printing house or artist himself, will be crucial in proving the origins and legitimacy of your print.
While one single catalogue raisonné does not exist for Dine’s prints, individual volumes for different periods of Dine’s career exist. The most well-respected catalogues are Jim Dine Prints, 1985-2000: A Catalogue Raisonné by Elizabeth Carpenter (2002), and I Print. Catalogue Raisonné of Prints, 2001–2020, published by Steidl in 2022. Together, these comprehensive catalogues aim to document all of Dine's known prints, providing detailed information on techniques, editions, and variations. Additionally, you can consult exhibition catalogues from major retrospectives, such as the 2020 Foundation Helenis show in France, which offer valuable insights and documentation.
Dine has worked with various publishing houses and print studios throughout his career, including Pace Editions in New York and Atelier Crommelynck in Paris. Each of these collaborations has its own characteristics in terms of paper, technique, and style, which can be crucial in the authentication process. Atelier Crommelynck, for example, was known for its experimental methods of achieving greater depth of colour using somewhat toxic chemicals. Understanding these nuances and the evolution of Dine's printmaking practice over time is essential for accurate authentication and valuation.
Edition and Signature
Jim Dine's approach to editioning and signing his prints is distinctive and somewhat unique, which aids in authentication. His signature, the print’s date and place of creation, and its edition number are written in cursive handwriting in the upper or lower margins of the print. There is, however, much variation, often within editions, making professional assessment necessary. Dine's print editions often range from 20 to 100, with some series produced in smaller numbers - Painted Self Portrait (1970), for example, is an edition of only seven. Artist's proofs, typically marked "A.P.", are highly prized by collectors. In some cases, Dine has added hand-colouring or additional marks to prints, making each one unique within the edition, and heavily influencing the desirability.
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Has Your Jim Dine Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
Dine employed a diverse range of techniques and materials in his printmaking career. He often used high-quality, archival papers for his prints, including handmade papers and specially treated surfaces. These materials, while generally durable, can be susceptible to environmental factors over time. The particular inks used in the production of Dine’s prints will impact how well the colours of your print stand the test of time. Many of Dine’s prints featuring hearts and bathrobes, for example, were produced by Atelier Crommelynck, known for using unusual and sometimes toxic chemicals in their ink. As such, the details in the prints may be more faithfully preserved and less vulnerable to fading, but toxic inks may have impacted the integrity of the paper over time.
When assessing your print, look for any signs of discolouration, foxing, or acid burn, particularly around the edges. Dine's vibrant use of colour is a hallmark of his work, so any fading or colour shift can significantly impact the print's value. This is especially important for prints that incorporate hand-colouring, as these can be more susceptible to changes, smudging, or water damage over time.
Check for any surface imperfections such as creases, scratches, or indentations. Dine's prints often feature areas of heavy ink coverage or embossing, which can be prone to cracking or flaking if not properly cared for. Examine the print under raking light to detect any such issues.
Proper storage and display are essential for maintaining a Dine print's condition. Ideally, prints should be kept in acid-free environments, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If framed, UV-protective glass and acid-free matting are recommended.
For a thorough assessment, consider consulting a paper conservator specialising in contemporary prints. They can provide a detailed condition report and advise on any necessary conservation measures. Remember that while minor imperfections might be acceptable given the age of some prints, significant damage or alterations can substantially decrease value. For advice on how to get started with conservation or condition assessment of your Jim Dine print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Jim Dine Print?
Timing the sale of a Jim Dine print requires careful consideration of market trends and external factors. Dine's market has shown steady growth over the past few decades, with particular spikes following major retrospectives or renewed interest in Pop Art. For example, the retrospective Jim Dine, Tools and Plants: Prints and Drawings at the Cristea Roberts Gallery in 2005, and the exhibition of 60 self-portraits at the Albertina Museum in Vienna in 2016. Both exhibitions generated significant buzz around Dine’s most popular works. Similarly, the release of new scholarly works or updated catalogue raisonnés can refocus attention on an artist's market.
Consider broader trends in the art world that might affect Dine's market. For example, renewed interest in 1960s art or thematic exhibitions focusing on everyday objects in art could create a favourable environment for selling Dine's prints. Additionally, anniversary years related to significant moments in Dine's career could spark increased interest and potentially higher prices.
We would also recommend monitoring sales results and market reports from major auction houses and galleries. These can provide insights into which series or periods of Dine's work are currently in highest demand. For instance, if there's a surge of interest in Dine's early Pop Art-related prints, it might be an opportune time to sell works from that period.
If you're considering selling a Dine print, it's advisable to consult with a specialist art advisor or broker who can provide tailored guidance based on your specific print and current market conditions. They can help you navigate the complexities of the market and identify the optimal moment to achieve the best possible price for your Dine print.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Jim Dine Print?
Selling a Jim Dine Via Auction House
Major auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's, and Phillips regularly feature Jim Dine's work in their contemporary art and print sales. These venues offer the advantage of a global reach and the potential for competitive bidding. Auction houses provide access to a wide pool of qualified buyers and the potential for achieving high prices in a competitive environment. There's also prestige associated with major auction houses, which can be beneficial for high-value Dine prints. However, consider that auction houses charge significant seller's fees, typically around 25% of the hammer price. There's also the risk of the work not meeting its reserve price, potentially impacting its future market value. You have less control over the timing and presentation of the sale, as you'll need to adhere to the auction house's schedule and cataloguing process. For high-value Dine prints, particularly rare or early works, or complete portfolios, auction houses can be an effective route. They have the expertise to properly market and contextualise Dine's work within the broader contemporary art market. However, ensure you understand the terms of consignment and any associated costs before proceeding.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Jim Dine Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in post-war and contemporary prints can offer a more personalised approach to selling a Jim Dine print. They typically have established networks of collectors and can facilitate private sales. Brokers offer personalised service and expert guidance, with the potential for quicker sales than through auction houses. They also provide the ability to maintain discretion and privacy in the sale, which can be important for some sellers. Brokers can be particularly effective for selling Dine prints that might appeal to a specific subset of collectors, such as those focused on Pop Art or American printmaking. They can leverage their knowledge of the market and collector preferences to target potential buyers effectively. However, broker fees can be substantial, often ranging from 10% to 20%. There's also limited exposure compared to public auctions, and you're reliant on the broker's network and expertise. When choosing a broker, look for those with a proven track record in handling Dine's work and a deep understanding of the market for post-war American prints.
Selling a Jim Dine Via Online Marketplace
Online art marketplaces have grown in popularity, offering a platform for sellers to reach a global audience. These platforms offer the potential for quick sales and often have lower fees compared to traditional channels. They provide access to a broad audience of collectors and enthusiasts, and the ability to control the listing and pricing. For Jim Dine prints, especially those of more modest value or from larger editions, online marketplaces can be an effective option. They allow for detailed descriptions and multiple images, which can be crucial for showcasing the nuances of Dine's printmaking techniques. However, for high-value works, these platforms come with significant considerations. There's a risk of undervaluing the work due to platform limitations, a lack of expert curation and buyer vetting, and potential security and authenticity concerns. For Dine prints of significant value or rarity, online marketplaces should be approached with caution. If considering this route, opt for specialised platforms that focus on fine art prints and have robust authentication processes in place.
Why Sell Your Jim Dine with MyArtBroker?
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces. Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller's Fees, 100% of the Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, we provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Read our cohesive report to navigate the art market as a seller: A Guide to Selling Prints in the Current Market.
Jim Dine Collection Management with MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
Emerging art tech tools are vital in navigating the current, and evolving, digital art market landscape. For instance, by adding Jim Dine prints from our website to the MyPortfolio dashboard, users gain insight into unique sale opportunities and observe market performance and fluctuations as they happen, streamlining the sales process effortlessly. Our pioneering technology has revolutionised art portfolio management, making it more accessible and equipping users with data-driven insights for informed decisions. MyArtBroker harnesses cutting-edge technology driven by data, coupled with a team of industry experts, to deliver an exceptional experience. Our professionals work closely with clients, utilising the MyPortfolio dashboard, to provide personalised guidance for creating a profitable art collection. By merging technology and expertise, we are committed to offering unparalleled curation and customer service.
Jim Dine
22 works
