
Art galleries and museums employ meticulous processes to authenticate and appraise wood carvings before featuring them in exhibitions. The authentication begins with a thorough examination of the carving's materials, tools, and techniques used, often involving scientific methods like dendrochronology (tree-ring dating) and spectroscopy to verify age and composition. Experts also analyze stylistic elements, comparing them to known works from specific periods or artists.
Provenance research plays a critical role, tracing the artwork's ownership history to confirm legitimacy. Appraisers assess the carving's condition, rarity, and cultural significance to determine its market and artistic value. Collaborations with historians, conservators, and forensic experts ensure accuracy. Finally, institutions document their findings in detailed reports, providing transparency for collectors and visitors. This rigorous process guarantees that exhibited wood carvings are genuine and worthy of public display.