In a few words. . . the price of a portrait should not be different than when you purchase this artwork from a painter or sculptor's gallery or agent.

It is unprofessional for a portraitist to charge lower fees when artwork is purchased directly. A gallery and/or agent strives to represent a portrait artist and earn the commission paid to them.  When a price list is created it should have been done so with care - taking into account the painter or sculptor's experience and renown and the commission to be paid the gallery or agent.

A price list should not waver from one source to another. It is generally accepted among painters and sculptors that their reputation is at stake if they should enter into contracts which deviate from the acceptable. Once another client realizes that they have paid more for their painting or sculpture the trust between the artist and his or her client will disappear quickly.

© Bernard Poulin- 2009