Frequently Asked Questions

Art Buying Guide & Frequently Asked Questions

Buying art should be enjoyable, personal and never intimidating.

Whether you're searching for contemporary art, original paintings, limited edition prints, vintage artwork or collectable pieces, Curated Treasures is here to make discovering and buying art online a more personal experience.

We carefully source artwork from trusted galleries, collectors and reputable suppliers, helping you discover pieces with character, history and individuality. From your first artwork to building an established collection, we're always happy to answer questions, offer guidance and help you find artwork you'll genuinely love.

Explore the frequently asked questions below to learn more about our artwork, ordering, delivery, art sourcing, collecting and buying art online.

About Our Artwork

What is secondary contemporary art?

Secondary contemporary art refers to artwork that has previously been owned or displayed. Unlike brand-new artwork sold directly by a gallery or publisher, secondary market pieces have already had a life of their own.

This can include ex-gallery artwork, pieces previously owned by collectors, or artwork with minor cosmetic marks on a frame that prevent it from being sold as new. Every piece is carefully inspected before being offered for sale, and any notable imperfections are clearly described in the listing.

Why buy secondary market art?

Buying secondary market art can offer the opportunity to own sought-after artists and collectable artwork at a more accessible price than buying new.

It can also be a more sustainable way to collect art, giving existing artwork a new home rather than allowing beautiful pieces to remain in storage or unused.

What is vintage art?

Vintage art generally refers to artwork that is around 50 years old or more. These pieces often have a unique character, history and charm that simply cannot be replicated.

Many vintage artworks develop a natural patina over time, while some come with fascinating stories about the artist, previous owners or their journey through the years.

Is all of your artwork authentic?

Yes. We take great care when sourcing artwork and only work with trusted galleries, collectors and reputable suppliers.

Where applicable, certificates of authenticity, edition numbers and provenance information will accompany the artwork, giving you greater confidence in your purchase.

Do you sell original artwork or limited editions?

Both. Our collection includes original paintings, limited edition prints, signed artwork, vintage pieces and carefully selected collectable works from a wide range of established artists.

What is a limited edition print?

A limited edition print is produced in a fixed quantity determined by the artist or publisher.

Each print is individually numbered and is often hand-signed by the artist, making it more desirable and collectable than an open edition.

What does "signed and numbered" mean?

A signed and numbered print has been personally signed by the artist and allocated its unique edition number. For example, 25/150 means it is number 25 from an edition of only 150 prints.

Because only a limited number exist, signed and numbered editions can be particularly appealing to collectors.

Buying Art Online

How do I place an order?

Simply place your order through our website. We'll then contact you personally to confirm your purchase, answer any questions and discuss delivery options and timing.

We carefully package every piece before dispatch, normally within three working days or on your preferred delivery date where possible.

Is buying art online safe?

Yes. We understand that buying artwork online can be a significant decision, which is why we're always happy to answer questions, provide additional photographs or videos and discuss any aspect of an artwork before you purchase.

Our aim is to make buying art online as enjoyable and reassuring as visiting a gallery.

Can I view artwork before I buy?

Curated Treasures is an online gallery and does not have a public showroom. However, we're always happy to help you buy with confidence.

If you'd like a closer look at an artwork, we can provide additional photographs, close-ups of the frame, videos or images taken from different angles.

Can I see more photographs before buying?

Of course. We're happy to provide additional photographs, close-up images or videos so you can feel completely confident before making your purchase.

Will my artwork arrive framed?

Each artwork listing clearly states whether the piece is supplied framed or unframed.

Where a frame is included, your artwork will arrive professionally framed and ready to hang unless otherwise stated.

Can I reserve an artwork?

Yes. We're happy to reserve an artwork for up to two months with a 20% non-refundable deposit.

If you'd like to reserve a particular piece, simply get in touch and we'll be happy to discuss the details.

Can I pay for my artwork in monthly instalments?

Yes. Curated Treasures offers Klarna at checkout, allowing eligible customers to choose a payment plan and pay for their artwork in instalments.

Klarna handles the payment arrangement, while Curated Treasures processes and dispatches your artwork once the delivery arrangements have been confirmed.

Can I buy artwork as a gift?

Absolutely. Artwork makes a thoughtful and lasting gift for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, retirements, new homes and many other special occasions.

If you're buying as a gift, let us know and we'll take extra care to make the experience as special as possible.

Do you offer gift vouchers?

Not at the moment, although this is something we're considering for the future.

If you're looking for a special artwork gift and aren't sure what to choose, we'd be delighted to help you select a piece.

Delivery & Packaging

Do you deliver throughout the UK?

Yes. We deliver throughout mainland UK.

If you're based outside the UK, please get in touch and we'll be happy to discuss international delivery options and provide a personalised quotation.

How is my artwork packaged?

Every artwork is carefully packaged using professional, protective materials to help ensure it arrives safely and in excellent condition.

When will my artwork be delivered?

Most orders are dispatched within three working days. Once dispatched, we normally use a next-working-day courier service, although delivery times can vary depending on your location.

Why don't you usually dispatch artwork on Fridays?

We try to avoid artwork sitting in courier depots over the weekend. This helps minimise the time your artwork spends in transit and reduces unnecessary handling.

Can I choose my delivery date?

Wherever possible, yes. We'll do our best to arrange delivery on a day that's convenient for you.

Art Sourcing

What is art sourcing?

If we don't already have the artwork or collectable you're looking for, we can search for it on your behalf.

Whether you're searching for a favourite artist, a sold-out limited edition or something truly unique, we'll use our network and expertise to help locate the right piece.

What can Curated Treasures source?

We regularly source:

  • Original artwork
  • Limited edition prints
  • Artwork by specific artists
  • Vintage and antique artwork
  • Memorabilia
  • Collectables
  • Antique jewellery
  • Tapestries
  • Decorative antiques

If you're looking for something not listed above, just ask—we love a challenge.

Is there a sourcing fee?

Yes. We charge a 20% sourcing fee, which covers the time and expertise involved in researching, locating and securing the right piece for you.

We'll always discuss the sourcing fee with you before beginning any search.

How long does art sourcing take?

Every search is different. Some pieces can be located within a few days, while rarer artworks or collectables may take longer.

We'll keep you informed throughout the process and let you know when suitable options become available.

Choosing the Right Artwork

I don't know much about art. Can you help?

Of course. You don't need to be an art expert to buy artwork you love.

Whether you're buying your very first piece or adding to an existing collection, we're always happy to offer friendly advice with no pressure.

Can you help me choose artwork for my home?

Yes. Tell us about your room, colour scheme, style and budget, and we'll happily suggest pieces that complement your space and reflect your personality.

How do I choose the right size artwork?

The right artwork should complement your space without overwhelming it. If you're unsure, we're happy to advise on size, placement and style.

Simply send us a photograph of your room and approximate wall measurements, and we'll help you find artwork that's appropriately proportioned.

Can you help me find artwork for my business?

Yes. We regularly work with offices, hotels, restaurants, reception areas, meeting rooms and other commercial spaces looking for artwork that creates the right impression.

Whether you're furnishing a single office or an entire building, we'd be delighted to help you find artwork that complements your environment.

Do you work with interior designers?

Absolutely. We enjoy working with interior designers on both residential and commercial projects, helping source artwork that complements the overall design scheme.

Collecting Art

Is art a good investment?

While some artworks increase in value over time, we always encourage people to buy art because they love it first.

Owning artwork that brings you joy every day is the greatest return. If it also appreciates in value, that's an added bonus.

Can you help me build an art collection?

Yes—and it's one of our favourite parts of the business.

We enjoy getting to know our customers, learning about the artists and styles they love, and helping them build collections over time. We can also let you know when new pieces by your favourite artists become available.

Do you buy artwork?

We may be interested in purchasing quality artwork, limited editions or complete collections.

If you're considering selling artwork, please contact us with photographs and as much information as possible about the piece, and we'll be happy to take a look.

Can I commission an artist through Curated Treasures?

Some of the artists we work with accept commissions. If there's a particular artist you're interested in, we'd be happy to make enquiries on your behalf.

About Curated Treasures

Do you only sell online?

Yes. Curated Treasures is an online gallery, allowing us to carefully curate our collection while keeping overheads lower than many traditional galleries.

This helps us offer competitive prices while maintaining a highly personal service. We also regularly attend networking events and exhibitions where people can see selected artworks in person.

Why buy from Curated Treasures instead of a traditional gallery?

We're not a traditional high-street gallery. We specialise in carefully curated secondary contemporary art, vintage artwork and collectables, helping people discover beautiful pieces with character, history and individuality.

Our personal service means you're never simply another online order. We take time to understand what you love and help you build a collection you'll enjoy for years to come.

Can I contact you if I can't find what I'm looking for?

Absolutely. If you know the artist, subject, colour, size or style you're looking for, simply get in touch.

We'll do our very best to source the perfect piece for you.

How do I care for my artwork?

To help preserve your artwork for years to come, keep it away from direct sunlight, excessive heat and damp conditions.

Dust the frame gently with a soft, dry cloth and avoid spraying cleaning products directly onto the artwork or glass.

Still can't find the answer you're looking for?

We're always happy to help. Whether you're searching for a particular artist, looking for the perfect artwork for your home or business, or interested in our art sourcing service, please get in touch with Curated Treasures.