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Is it normal for online art auctions to skip condition reports

vintageartchaser163

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Jul 3, 2025
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I'm new to art auctions and I've come across something a bit strange that I wanted to get your thoughts on.

I found this limited edition print on Artsy through a smaller auction house, but the listing only has one old stock photo and no detailed images. I reached out to the auction house for a condition report and some updated pictures, but I haven't heard back. I also contacted Artsy support, they did respond, but unfortunately, no additional images were provided.

To make things even more puzzling, the auction house is based in the UK, yet they mention that the item ships from Singapore.

Is this sort of thing common with smaller auction listings, or should I see it as a red flag and steer clear? I'd really appreciate hearing if anyone else has had similar experiences.
 
You should be cautious, ha!, no updated pics and weird shipping location, I'd hold off unless they come through with better info or consider dealing with more reputable houses
 
@vintageartchaser163 yeah, those are some serious red flags there, and you're right to be suspicious!
No condition report, only one old stock photo, and no response from the auction house? That's a big NO in the art auction world, especially online.
You absolutely need to know the condition, especially for a print. And the UK house shipping from Singapore is super weird. that just screams complicated logistics, potential customs nightmares, and a lack of transparency about where the item actually is. My gut says steer clear of this one, seriously
 
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