What is a Catalogue Raisonné?
Definition: A catalogue raisonné is a definitive, scholarly listing of all known artworks by a specific artist, including details like title, medium, dimensions, date, edition information, provenance, exhibition history, and literature references. It is one of the most trusted sources used to establish authenticity and track an artwork’s history.
Compiled by scholars, artist estates, foundations, or museums, catalogues raisonnés may take years or decades to complete. Some are published in print, while others are updated digitally. Inclusion in a catalogue raisonné can substantially impact an artwork’s legitimacy and market value.
For collectors, auction houses, and institutions, the catalogue raisonné serves as a gold standard reference for verifying whether a work is genuine. It may also note rejected works or works deemed dubious, further shaping an artist’s legacy.
