Founded in 1945, the French Union of Professional Experts in Works of Art and Collectibles (SFEP) is the oldest organization representing our profession as art experts. Guided by a demanding code of ethics, it fosters cohesion among its members, whose activities are diverse and complementary.
Composed exclusively of independent professionals whose expertise is unanimously recognized, the Union currently has 137 members across 45 specialties. Many of them, who are also court-appointed experts, are registered with a Court of Appeal, or with the Customs or State Property Administration. Each member, within their respective specialty, offers their services in France and abroad to collectors and enthusiasts, heirs, donors of works of art, the courts, and museums, providing advice, appraisals, and presentations of objects for public auction.
As the scientific experts responsible for compiling the catalogues that underpin the reputation of French public auctions, these experts, unlike in other countries, guarantee the accuracy of their appraisals and descriptions, fully engaging their responsibility and credibility. Membership in the SFEP (French Society of Experts), subject to strict criteria of competence and experience, is in itself a safeguard against the regrettable deregulation of the expert title in France. New laws governing the art market, the elimination of auctioneers in voluntary sales, and their replacement by sales companies highlight the crucial role of experts, the only professionals who combine in-depth knowledge of objects with a comprehensive understanding of the market in their specialty. Today more than ever, they are seen as key contacts, available for consultation directly.
1 rue Rossini, 75009 Paris
The Syndicat des Négociants en Art brings together, represents, and supports art market professionals, both in France and internationally.