An art advisor is a full-time, recognized professional engaged to help the new or established collector in every aspect of the formation and maintenance of an art collection. The advisor should be expected to discuss with his client and then oversee matters of research, connoisseurship, acquisition, conservation, insurance, installation and sales of works of art when required. He is not a dealer and has no financial position in the works of art which are of interest to his client.

An experienced advisor, to best serve his clients, should bring to his profession considerable experience and wide ranging interest in diverse fields of collecting. He should demonstrate strong connections with the art market in the U.S. and abroad. Above all he should represent the highest standards of judgment in matters of quality, authenticity and condition of works of art and his integrity should be beyond question.