If you want to find out how much the family painting of Great Uncle Herbert is worth you need to know who painted it. Why not ask for advice at one of the larger Museums or Galleries. If it is an Old Master the Curatorial Staff will no doubt be thrilled to help you and if not they can also give you some guidance for valuation.

Be very wary of people who come to the door and offer to give free valautions on the spot. Many people have, unfortunately, sold valuable items to 'knockers' for a lot less than they were worth. If in any doubt get a second opinion , if not a third. Also why not ask other members of your family if they would be interested in the items. It is funny how an unwanted item to one generation can be the trendy accessory of the next.

Advice and valuation information can be found at these sites:

BBC Antiques Roadshow
www.bbc.co.uk/antiques/

Christies
www.christies.com

Southebys Auction House
www.sothebys.com

Bonhams Auctioneers
www.bonhams.com

If you want to buy Fine Art reproductions try:

Tate Gallery Shop
www.tate.org.uk

V&A Museum Shop
www.vam.ac.uk