While not venturing so far as to specify where they should be hung, some artists, such as Richard Diebenkorn (1922-1993), have been known to leave notes to indicate their correct orientation. On the reverse of the 1954 work Berkeley #16, for example, Diebenkorn indicated the top of the painting with an upward arrow.
If a work has been kept in an unsuitable environment, the back can be revealing. Major cracks might indicate that it has been displayed in hot, dry conditions, such as above a fireplace, while warped stretchers could suggest that it has been hung in a humid place, such as a bathroom. ‘Neither is advisable,’ says Ghosh.
For more than a quarter of a century, Christie’s has engaged with the legacy of Nazi-era and Second World War art theft and dispossession. Find out more about Christie’s Restitution department
Sell with us: selling your art or objects at Christie’s is a smooth and straightforward experience. We’ll dedicate our global network and market expertise to get the best price for your item. Learn how