How-to:Sell/buy an original painting

[Mathias Koerber]

Hi all,

I am contemplating buying an original painting (oil, quite old)
from a relative. mostly because I personally like it. It is said
to be moderately valuable, but I have not verified any of that.

I would like to find out whether there is any information
(websites, FAQs etc) on the 'Net about any of these:

- what documentation should come with a picture (provided it still
exists)?
- In case no other documentation exists, how should one properly
document the sale (identity of the picture, history etc)?
- I might want to take the picture to another country with me
when I move.
- What could the customs (or any other agency) require
in terms of documentation etc?
- How to ensure that they don't slap me with a large import tax based
on a hypothetical value (if we don'thave any valuation for the
picture)?
- Should any items be valued for any
move to establish such a value? WOuld they even care if the picture
stays in my possessin?

As you see I have little/no knowledge about all this.

Any help/links/pointers etc welcome

Thanks

Mathias

PS: Fup to rec.arts.fine