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A Seller's Guide To John Piper

EA
reviewed by Erin Argun,
Last updated3 Jun 2024
Two abstracted heads on a brown canvas with stylised foliage in pink, yellow, and blue shades accentuating their features. Additional abstract elements include vertical rows of patterned squares and circles on the left edge, and horizontal lines in blue and white running down the centre.Image © Tate / Foliate Heads I © John Piper, 1975
Leah Mentzis

Leah Mentzis, Partnerships Manager[email protected]

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John Piper?

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John Piper was a British painter, printmaker, designer, and art critic. He was born on December 13, 1903, in Epsom, Surrey. Piper was a prolific artist who produced a wide range of works, including paintings, prints, stained glass windows, and tapestries. He is known for his modernist style, which drew inspiration from the natural world, particularly the landscapes of England, and often incorporated elements of Abstraction and Surrealism.

Piper studied at the Royal College of Art in London from 1926 to 1929 and went on to become a prominent figure in the British art world. He was a member of the influential artist group The Seven and Five Society and also worked as a critic and writer, contributing articles to various publications. Piper's work has been widely exhibited and collected, and he is considered one of the most important British artists of the 20th century.

Oil painting of a harbor scene viewed through an interior window with doily patterned curtains. A flower vase rests on the windowsill. The street, a house, the sea, and the harbor are visible. The painting exhibits loose brushstrokes and predominantly features shades of red, yellow, blue, green, and blue.Image © Sotheby's / Harbour Scene © John Piper 1932

How Much Do John Piper Prints Sell For?

The price of John Piper prints can vary widely depending on factors such as the rarity of the print, the condition of the artwork, the edition size, and the demand from buyers. Generally speaking, his prints can sell for anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand.

In recent years, Piper's work has continued to sell well at auction spanning various mediums and periods of his career. In April 2023, St Mary The Virgin Church, Fawley (1983), a unique watercolour drawing sold at Dawson’s Auctioneers and Valuers for £13,000 (hammer). In 2019 his painting Harbour Scene (c. 1932) sold at Sotheby’s (London) for £52,500, both works outperforming the preset high estimates.

It's important to note that sales values of Piper prints can vary depending on many factors. It's always recommended to consult with a reputable art dealer or auction house for an accurate valuation of a specific print. Get in touch with MyArtBroker for a free consultation!

A landscape painting adorned with decorative lines and patterns in vibrant and bold colors. The lines and patterns add intricate details and visual interest to the scene, enhancing the overall composition.Image © Tate / Near Newcastle Emlyn Cardigan © John Piper 1968

How Do You Authenticate a John Piper Print?

It is important to ensure your prints authenticity to attract serious buyers and get the best value for your artwork. The following steps can help you authenticate a John Piper print:

  1. Research the print: Gather information about the specific print you have, including its title, edition size, and any identifying marks or labels. Compare your print to known examples and information about the artist's work.
  2. Check the paper and ink: Examine the paper and ink used in the print to ensure they are consistent with the artist's known materials and techniques.
  3. Look for signatures and markings: Look for the artist's signature or other markings that indicate the print is part of a limited edition. Be aware that some prints may have been signed or marked after the fact, so it's important to verify the signature.
  4. Consult an expert: If you're unsure about the authenticity of your John Piper print, consider consulting an expert or a reputable art authentication service. They can examine the print in person and provide a professional opinion on its authenticity.

By following these steps, you can authenticate your print and ensure that it is accurately represented to potential buyers.

Collaged print showcasing three negative photographic proofs of a seated woman. The woman is nude, with crossed legs and her arm resting on her shin. The composition starts with a blue gradient and transitions to warmer hues from left to right, creating a visually dynamic effect.Image © Tate / Eye And Camera © John Piper 1983
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Has Your John Piper Print Been Kept In Good Condition?

The condition of the print plays a significant role in determining its value and desirability to potential buyers. Taking good care of art prints can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. Here are some things to consider:

Firstly, you should examine the print for any visible signs of damage, such as tears, creases, stains, or fading. If there is any damage, it's best to be transparent with potential buyers and disclose this upfront.

Secondly, make sure the print has been stored properly. It should have been kept out of direct sunlight and moisture, as these can cause damage to the paper and ink. Ideally, the print should have been stored in acid-free archival sleeves or framed under UV-protective glass.

Finally, consider having the print appraised by a professional appraiser or art dealer. They can provide an expert opinion on the condition and value of the print, which can help you determine an appropriate asking price and attract potential buyers who are interested in acquiring John Piper's work. To explore our valuation and appraisal services, get in contact with us at MyArtBroker where our specialists are ready to speak with you.

Large-scale collaged painting depicting the photographic shadow of the central city-center of Rome. Abstracted markings of famous cathedral architecture in yellow, purple, and red add identifiable elements to the composition.Image © Sotheby's / Capriccio of Rome, Design for the Cover of the Brandenburg Concertos © John Piper 1964

When Is the Best Time to Sell My John Piper Print?

The best time to sell your John Piper print may depend on several factors, including the current demand for his works, the rarity of your particular print, and the condition of the artwork. In general, it is recommended to sell a print when it is in high demand or when the market is strong, which can potentially increase the value of the work. Read our guide dedicated to navigating the blue-chip art market to help. Additionally, using MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio feature, the only dedicated print market index, can aid in tracking the demand of your artwork in real time and help you to identify the best time to sell.

Additionally, it is important to consider the timing of any upcoming exhibitions or events related to the artist, as this may increase interest and demand for their works. It is also helpful to keep an eye on auction results for similar works to get a sense of current market value. MyArtBroker is always publishing the most current auction reports. Read our latest April auction report for sales information.

Ultimately, the decision to sell your work should be based on your personal financial goals and circumstances. If you are unsure about the value or timing of selling your print, it may be helpful to consult with a reputable art dealer or auction house to get a professional opinion.

An abstract painting depicting England's coastal industrial landscape. Vertical canvas with three stacked scenes showing various scenery using abstracted blue, yellow, pink, and orange colours representing building structures. Detailed outlines in black emphasise the features.Image © Christie's / Portland Trio © John Piper 1954

Where Can I Sell My John Piper Print?

Selling A John Piper Via Auction House

One of the main advantages of consigning works to art auctions is the potential for a higher sale price, as auction houses have access to a wide range of collectors and buyers. Additionally, auction houses handle coordination of the sale, including marketing, logistics, and payments, which can make the process more streamlined and convenient for the seller.

However, there are also some drawbacks to selling through an auction house. Auction houses charge a commission fee on the final sale price, which is dented from seller profits. Additionally, the timing of the sale is not dictated by the seller, as all auction sales are pre-coordinated in advance and usually coincide with other commercial art market events.

Finally, auction house sales can be unpredictable, as the final sale price will depend on the demand from buyers at that particular moment. Overall, selling a John Piper artwork through an auction house can be a viable option for those seeking a high sale price and a streamlined process, although it may not be the best option for every seller.

Selling A John Piper Via a Broker

Selling a John Piper print through a broker has both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, working with a broker can provide access to a wider network of potential buyers and can eliminate stress and time commitment from the selling process when selling via auction. Additionally, brokers have years of expertise in the art market and can offer advice on pricing and marketing strategies.

However, broker's often charge commission fees as well, which reduce the overall profit made from the sale. Additionally, not all brokers may have adept knowledge in Piper works, which could limit their ability to connect with interested buyers. At MyArtBroker, we have the perfect solution to both the issues. We charge a 0% commission fee, and our expert brokers specialise in all contemporary blue-chip artists and Modern British artists, so you find the perfect value for your prints.

Ultimately, the decision to sell through a broker should be based on individual circumstances, such as the seller's familiarity with the art market and their time constraints. It's important to do research and choose a reputable broker with experience in the sale of Piper prints to ensure a successful transaction. To learn more, we recommend reading our comprehensive Guide To Auction v Private Sales.

Abstract canvas artwork featuring natural colours and lichen-green stains symbolising a bird's-eye view of a landscape. Abstracted forms and colours are strategically arranged to depict the scene. A delicate white outline is added, creating geometric shapes that further enhance the composition.Image © Sotheby's / John Piper, C.H. © John Piper c. 1936

Selling A John Piper Via Online Marketplace

Selling a John Piper print through an online marketplace offers several advantages, including a potentially wider audience reach, low transaction fees, and convenience. Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy offer a varied degree of convenience allowing sellers to list their items for sale at any time, at any location, so buyers can easily browse and purchase the works they want.

However, there are also drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest concerns is the risk of fraud or scams, as online marketplaces are not always able to verify the authenticity of the works being sold. Sellers may also face competition from other sellers, making it difficult to stand out and sell their prints at a fair price. Additionally, sellers must coordinate all aspects of the sale, including shipping, which can be time-consuming, costly, and complex.

Why Sell Your John Piper With MyArtBroker?

If you're considering selling your John Piper print, then there are several reasons why MyArtBroker is the perfect choice to help you do it.

A Dedicated Broker

At MyArtBroker, we have a team of experts dedicated to helping you sell your artwork at the best possible price. Our team has a wealth of experience in the art world, and we use this expertise to guide you through every step of the selling process, from valuation to the final sale.

Our Network

MyArtBroker has a wide network of buyers, including collectors, dealers, and auction houses. Our Trading Floor platform allows buyers to place bids on artworks, ensuring that you get the best possible price for your artwork.

John Piper Collection Management with MyPortfolio

MyPortfolio is an online tool that allows you to manage your art collection with ease by tracking sales data allowing you to see where opportunities lie. Our team of experts can also help you build your collection and find new works to diversify your portfolio.

Selling your Piper print can be challenging, but with MyArtBroker, you can be confident that we're here to help. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you sell your John Piper print and build your collection.

Leah Mentzis

Leah Mentzis, Partnerships Manager[email protected]

Interested in buying or selling
John Piper?

Get a valuation