I recently purchased a sketch from what appears to be a study for the Picasso's "Guernica".?

Question

I'm a little weary of its authenticity. Does anyone have any images of the sketches for this painting or know of a way to authenticate it?

Answer 1

Call Sotheby's NYC 212.606.7000 and get the email for the Impressionist Dept. Email them photos and Provenance and they can tell you what you have.

Answer 2

Most original works of art should come with a provenance that establishes its authenticity. This can include records that trace its ownership history, as well as establishing  that it really is what it claims to be - work by a particular artist, rather than a forgery or copy. A reputable dealer should supply this.

Lack of provenance may not indicate it is a forgery but you would need to investigate the history of the artist and the painting, eg. did Picasso give away sketches, who did you buy it from and is it feasible that they had obtained ownership of such a sketch.

Picasso started work in May 1937, and was already an established artist so I would be very surprised if this sketch is authentic if it has no provenance.

The second link provided below has photos of some of the sketches.

Answer 3

Only a Picasso expert or curator would likely know.  Is it signed?  If not, you may have another artist's study of the work. . . which would be cool too!