This page explains what ArtMax research can and cannot establish, so you can decide how much weight to give a report.
How a report is built and checked
Every Full Research report has two steps. An AI model researches the object using public sources and writes a report with links to its sources. A separate AI model then reviews that completed report against the sources and evidence supplied with it, and points out material problems: statements that look incorrect or unsupported, contradictions, uncertainty, misleading conclusions, and important gaps.
The review does not re-fetch every source or grade each claim one by one. It is there to make weaknesses visible before you rely on the report. The sources stay in the report so you can inspect them.
Market evidence can be incomplete
A report can only use the comparables its research finds. Relevant sales may be private, behind a paywall, poorly indexed, or missed, and one important sale can change the picture. That is why the report lists individual comparables and separates completed sales from asking prices, estimates, and starting bids, rather than giving a single number.
Limits that do not go away
Sources can be wrong, stale, or misread, and AI models can misattribute, overstate, or miss evidence. Some of the most important facts about an object — its physical condition, authenticity, and clear title — cannot be settled by public research alone and may need a qualified professional who can examine it.
ArtMax is not an appraiser or an authenticator. No report is an appraisal within the meaning of USPAP or any similar standard, and a report should not be used as one for insurance, probate, donation, or legal purposes.
If you use ArtMax professionally
Descriptions, condition notes, estimates, and prices that go into your catalogue, listings, or tags are yours. Review them before they carry your name, and give unusual or high-value material your own professional review. See our Terms.
Corrections
If you find a mistake, email Jonathan@artmax.art with what you found. Corrections are free. Our Methodology page describes the research process in more detail.