Art historical research

What does this service entail?  

The research is carried out by our Collection Specialists on the basis of good quality digital photographs.  

We can assist you in answering the following research questions: 

• When, where and by whom was my artwork created? 
• What is the provenance of my artwork? 
• What subject is depicted in my artwork? 
   

For the research, we make use of our own databases and collections, as well as publicly accessible online sources. We deliver the results via email in a digital report.  

The RKD’s research reports cannot be considered official documents, or certificates of authenticity. We do not conduct technical research of artworks, not do we provide financial appraisals.  

Benefits: 

• Choose a credit amount of 5, 10, or 20 hours 
• The credit remains valid for 2 years 
• You can easily pay by invoice 
• You submit your research questions via email 

For whom?  

In line with our strategy, this service is available only to professional parties. Private individuals can carry out their own research, using our research platform, RKD Research—at home or on-site in our reading room in The Hague. Our staff will be happy to advise you on how to use our collection and to determine the best approach. We can also refer you to external specialists and organizations that may be able to carry out the research for you. 

Purchasing research credits 

In order to commission art historical research from the RKD, you will need to purchase research credits. We offer packages for 5, 10, or 20 hours of research, which remain valid for two years from the date of purchase. 

Research credits

All prices are exclusive of 21% VAT. 

If you wish to buy research credits, please send an email to arthistoricalresearch@rkd.nl, with the following information:  

1. Name
2. Company name
3. Address
4. VAT number (if applicable)
5. Preferred package: (5, 10, 20 hours)
    

Our Terms of delivery for commissioned art historical research apply to this service.