Appraisal of your Korean objects

Do you own a piece of Korean art and would like to appraise it? Our auctioneers and experts specializing in Asian art will appraise your Asian art objects free of charge and help you sell them at auction.

Receive a confidential estimate for your Asian artworks within 48 hours.

Korean art is distinguished by its historical depth and refined aesthetics. From delicate ceramics to evocative paintings, each piece is a representation of Korea’s millennia-old culture and traditions. Art experts offer free appraisal services to help collectors and enthusiasts understand the value of their works. This estimation process is essential, whether to sell, insure or simply appreciate a piece of art.

Estimates and prices of Korean art objects on the market

Here is an overview of estimated prices for different categories of Korean art, based on recent auction results:

Recognizing my Korean artwork

To evaluate a Korean work of art, several criteria must be taken into account:

• Dating: An object’s historical period has a direct influence on its value. For example, objects from the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897), such as lacquer and mother-of-pearl boxes, are highly prized. A Joseon lacquer box sold for €13,776 due to its rarity.
• Type of work: Type plays a role in valuation. Lacquerware, ceramics, silk paintings and Korean porcelain are valued for their technique.
• Signature and seal: The presence of a signature or seal from the artist or studio confirms the authenticity and period of the work. For example, a contemporary work signed by Yiannis Moralis fetched €559,200, enhanced by its precise dating and signature.
• Provenance: Pieces from renowned collections or museums, such as the National Museum of Korea, increase their credibility and prestige, which has a positive influence on their value.
• Artistic quality: Fine craftsmanship, harmonious colors and rare materials (mother-of-pearl, lacquer) have a strong impact on value. Careful details and harmonious patterns are signs of high quality.
• Condition: Well-preserved pieces, with no major alterations, sell at a high price. Significant restoration or missing parts reduce the value.
• Artist’s reputation: the artist’s reputation influences demand and the final price. Works by famous contemporary Korean artists, such as Lee Ufan, whose painting fetched €597,300, enjoy international recognition through exhibitions and retrospectives.

Historical and artistic evolution of Korean art

Three Kingdoms (57 BC – 668 AD)

The kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla each developed distinct artistic styles influenced by cultural exchanges with China and Buddhism, with an emphasis on depictions of daily life and mythological motifs.

Unified Silla period (668-935 AD)

Unification of artistic styles under Buddhist influence, with religious architecture and sculpture flourishing during a period of peace and stability.

Goryeo dynasty (918-1392)

Golden age of Korean art, marked by aesthetic refinement, particularly in religious art and ceramics, reaching heights of elegance and technique.

Joseon dynasty (1392-1910)

Influenced by Confucianism, Joseon art is distinguished by its sobriety and pragmatism, with increased attention to landscapes, nature and scholarly principles.

Japanese colonial period (1910-1945)

The Japanese occupation introduced modern artistic styles, while Korean artists attempted to preserve and revitalize national traditions in a context of domination.

Modern and contemporary art (1945 – today)

After liberation, Korean art became a blend of tradition and modernity, influenced by international trends while exploring and reaffirming a unique Korean identity.