In a message dated 12/10/2004 11:27:12 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< We know that the appraiser is a former art museum director and are 
wondering
 if this, asking donors to have appraisals done after the donation,  is a
 common practice in the art museum world? >>

I think Janice Klein's response was excellent, but I'd like to add a couple 
of clarifications for emphasis.  I don't know whether having appraisals done 
after the donation is a "common practice" or not, whether in the "art museum 
world" or other museum environment, but I know that this practice has occurred 
frequently in our history museum. Often it is a matter of convenience for the 
donor, as donors may not have access to appraisers in their area prior to the 
donation, but can engage qualified appraisers in our area (Washington) to 
inspect the collection in our facilities after we have received it; we are merely 
providing access.  The fact that the museum staff provides such access is NOT 
tantamount to our declaring values at all, as Jeff suggested.  The access we 
offer to appraisers is essentially identical to the research access we would 
provide to anyone, but we are not in any way involved in establishing values; 
that's between the appraiser and the donor.  Whether such an arrangement is 
standard or "common" throughout the museum world I couldn't say, but there is 
nothing ethically wrong with it.

Nor do I think there's anything questionable about a former museum director 
or curator getting into the appraisal biz; however, if such an appraiser 
returns to the museum world, eyebrows might well be raised.

David Haberstich

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