Until 1914 it was common for owners of large art collections to place a wax seal with their coat-of-arm on the back of paintings.

In addition to individual collectors it was also done by institutions. For example we worked on a 1700's painting that had a wax seal from a monastery.

Regarding rubber stamps, they became common after the use of wax seals declined. It is mostly in the 20th century that rubber stamps were used.

Among the most common users are:

•   Estates of artists
•   Auctioneers
•   Customs administration
•   Tax administration
•   Justice department
•   Culture ministry
•   Some framing galleries
•   Some art galleries

Today the use of wax seals has nearly entirely disappeared and the use of ruber stamps has become uncommon.

We research, date and identify all seals and stamps that are legible.