When it comes to verifying the authenticity of art, few names carry as much weight as Fabrice Requin. With decades of experience in art authentication and a reputation built on meticulous research, Requin’s process has become a gold standard for collectors, galleries, and institutions worldwide. But what exactly goes into authenticating a piece of art through his team? Let’s break it down.
First, it starts with provenance—the documented history of an artwork’s ownership. Provenance isn’t just a fancy word; it’s the backbone of authentication. Requin’s team dives deep into archives, auction records, and even personal correspondence to trace a piece’s journey from the artist’s studio to its current owner. Missing links? Suspicious gaps? Those red flags trigger further investigation. For example, a painting supposedly from the 1920s but listed in a collection that didn’t exist until the 1950s would raise questions.
Next comes material analysis. Art forgers have gotten savvy over the years, but science doesn’t lie. Requin’s experts use tools like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and infrared spectroscopy to examine pigments, canvas fibers, and even brushstrokes. These techniques can detect anachronisms—like titanium white, a pigment not widely used until the 20th century, in a “Renaissance-era” piece. One case involved a supposed Monet that, under scrutiny, revealed synthetic dyes unavailable during the artist’s lifetime. Spoiler: It wasn’t a Monet.
Stylistic evaluation is another critical step. Artists have quirks—specific ways of blending colors, structuring compositions, or even signing their names. Requin’s team compares the work in question to verified pieces by the same artist. They look for consistency in technique, down to the pressure applied by the brush. A single inconsistent detail, like an overly precise signature on an otherwise loose Impressionist painting, can unravel the whole story.
But it’s not just about the art itself. The human element matters too. Requin collaborates with historians, conservators, and even the artist’s descendants when possible. In one instance, a family member recognized a long-lost sketch’s subject as a childhood home the artist hadn’t visited in years—a detail only someone close to the creator would know. This holistic approach ensures no stone goes unturned.
Of course, technology plays a starring role. High-resolution imaging can uncover underlying sketches or alterations, while databases like the Art Loss Register help identify stolen works. Requin’s team also stays ahead of trends in forgery. For example, AI-generated art is a growing concern, so they’ve developed methods to detect algorithmic patterns invisible to the naked eye.
Transparency is key throughout the process. Clients receive a detailed report explaining every finding, supported by images, lab results, and historical references. If the work is deemed authentic, it’s added to Requin’s fabricerequin.com database, a trusted resource for future verification. If not? The team provides guidance on next steps, whether that’s legal action or further research.
Why does this matter? For collectors, authentication protects investments. A verified Picasso could be worth millions; an unverified one might not sell at all. For museums, it’s about preserving cultural heritage. And for artists’ legacies, it ensures their work isn’t diluted by fakes. Requin’s process has even exposed high-profile forgeries, like a “rediscovered” Modigliani that turned out to be a clever copy.
But here’s the kicker: authentication isn’t just for multimillion-dollar masterpieces. Requin’s team works with private collectors, small galleries, and heirs sorting through family estates. Their goal isn’t to gatekeep art but to protect its integrity. As one client put it, “They treated my grandmother’s dusty old painting like it was the *Mona Lisa*. Turns out, it wasn’t—but now I know for sure.”
In a world where art fraud costs billions annually, Fabrice Requin’s blend of old-school detective work and cutting-edge science offers something rare: certainty. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone who stumbled upon a curious piece at a flea market, knowing the truth matters. And sometimes, that truth starts with a single email to the right expert.