Search for a work

Simple search is enough when you know the artist's name or the subject of the work. It queries titles, authors and descriptions. Advanced search becomes necessary when the information is partial or when the name is common: it combines period, technique, dimensions, country of disappearance.

Image search is most useful for anonymous works, archaeological objects or inventory photographs. It compares the image's visual fingerprint with those in the database, even if the image is cropped or of poorer quality.

A positive result does not mean the work offered is stolen: it signals a possible match to be checked. Compare the details — dimensions, marks, restorations — and contact the BIOP unit in case of doubt.

A negative result is not a guarantee: the database holds only works that have been reported. It must be cross-checked with examination of the provenance, certificates and consistency of the work's history.

Each search can be saved as a dated record, containing the criteria and the results. For operators, this record goes into the due diligence file; for private individuals, it attests to their good faith.

It is advisable to repeat the search if several weeks separate the first check from signing, as new alerts may have been published in the meantime.

A work may be reported after your first check. The alerts you create warn you if a record matching your criteria appears, but nothing replaces an up-to-date search at the time of purchase.

For collections held over time, some insurers require a fresh annual check of all the works, which the list-import function of professional access allows.