how i work

Independence

I do not sell crating, transport, storage, framing, rigging, or installation, and I accept no commission, referral fee, or other consideration from anyone who does. I do not buy or sell works. I do not appraise them.

Discretion and confidentiality

I do not publish client names, and I will not use your collection as a reference or an example without your written permission. I expect to sign your confidentiality agreement, and I am glad to.
I never take custody of your property. Records and documents you share with me are held in a secure cloud data tenant with multi-factor authentication rather than on consumer file-sharing services. Where an engagement requires bringing in an appraiser, a conservator, a photographer, or a specialist contractor, I will tell you who and why before anyone is approached.
 

How an engagement proceeds

1. A conversation, at no charge, about what you are facing.
2. A written scope and fee before any work begins.
3. The work.
4. A document you keep — an inventory, a specification, a written standard, a review — that remains useful to the office long after the engagement has ended.

Fees are quoted after that first conversation.
 

Working with counsel

I accept a limited number of standard of care engagements each year in matters concerning the handling, transport, storage, or installation of fine art. Retention runs through counsel rather than the party. A consulting role, undisclosed and not subject to deposition, is available and is frequently the better instrument; I will say so when it is.
I run a conflicts check before accepting anything. No engagement is ever taken on a contingent basis. Rates are provided on inquiry.
 

What I decline
Any engagement in which I would be reviewing my own prior recommendation.
Contingent fee arrangements of any kind.
Matters arising from my prior employment.
Work I do not have the calendar to do properly.