How would I go about authenticating my own work?

Question

If I were to sell a painting to someone would I need to get some documentation from somewhere claiming I painted it or not? Not like I'm selling for lots of money but just in case.

Answer 1

Include it in your portfolio and sign the painting.  Photograph your other work and that will show your style, development, and other works with similarities.  

Answer 2

No.

Wouldn't hurt to take a picture in case a copyright issue developed someday (you should take one for your portfolio anyway). Your signature on a painting should be proof enough unless someone tried to create a forgery of your work (once you're famous). Conceivably, there could be a problem for the buyer in proving it's authenticity, but generally you wouldn't have to prove you painted it.

Answer 3

All my works are photographed and archived. Anytime one leaves my possession, I print a form with a small photo of the painting which includes the date and to whom the painting went to. This probably isn't necessary, but the new owner appreciates it.

Answer 4

You don't have to, but you can print your own certificate of authenticity to include with the painting. Date and sign it. You can do the same thing with limited edition prints, including the edition number.