Use museum records as comparison evidence
The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg publishes collection, exhibition, and visit information, including a request that appraisal inquiries identify artist, title, date, ownership history, and provide a clear image. That is a useful evidence model. It does not mean the museum appraises every inquiry, authenticates a private listing, or has any connection to an object simply marketed in St. Petersburg.
Assemble the same core identifiers plus medium, support, overall and image dimensions, weight, edition details, inscriptions, labels, restoration, and present condition. Ask for dated ownership and exhibition records rather than accepting a summary. Photograph the front, reverse, edges, frame, backing, fasteners, and defects under useful light. Preserve who made each opinion and what evidence was available at the time.



