What is my Franz A. Bischoff painting worth?

It depends on subject, size, date, condition and history, and Bischoff's range is wide, from small studies to large exhibition canvases. Send photographs and measurements and the gallery can give an informed opinion.

Do you buy Bischoff paintings outright?

Yes. The gallery can purchase a Bischoff directly, or offer consignment or a private sale if that suits the painting better.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes. Inquiries are confidential, and owner and buyer names are never published.

Is a small Bischoff study worth sending?

Yes. Small oils on board or paper, such as the gallery's recorded sales San Pedro Docks and Spring Poem Study, are part of his work. Include the measurements with your photos.

For owners

What is a Franz A. Bischoff painting worth?

Seven questions decide most of a Bischoff's value. We don't post prices, because no honest figure is possible without seeing the painting, but these are the questions we ask first.

Which subject is it?

Collectors look for particular Bischoff subjects: roses and other flowers; the garden and family at his South Pasadena studio-home; the Arroyo Seco; the coast from Laguna Beach to Monterey, Carmel and Cambria; San Pedro harbor; mountain, Sierra and Palm Springs desert views; and the Zion National Park pictures of 1928.

How big, and on what?

His paintings run from studies of about 7 x 10 inches to large canvases. Oil on canvas, oil on board and oil on paper are all found. Measure the image, not the frame.

When was it painted?

Bischoff moved to Southern California in 1906, built his studio-home on the Arroyo Seco in 1908, and travelled in Europe in 1912 to study the Old Masters and the Impressionists. Through the 1920s his color became stronger and more daring. Anything on the back that suggests a date or place is worth photographing.

What condition is it in?

Note any flaking, holes or tears, earlier relining or retouching, and discolored varnish. Ask before having anything cleaned or repaired.

What is its history?

Labels from the California Art Club or other exhibitions, dealer labels, inscriptions and family papers all count. He shared the California Art Club's Huntington Prize in 1924, so exhibition history from that period is of interest.

Is it by Bischoff?

We look at signature, handling, materials and documentation together. A specialist in Early California painting can usually tell quickly whether a picture deserves closer study.

Getting a considered opinion

Steven Stern Fine Arts reviews each Bischoff individually, in confidence. Send photos with the offer form or call (310) 570-5679. The past sales page shows the range of works the gallery has handled.

Frequently asked

What is my Franz A. Bischoff painting worth?: It depends on subject, size, date, condition and history, and Bischoff's range is wide, from small studies to large exhibition canvases. Send photographs and measurements and the gallery can give an informed opinion.
Do you buy Bischoff paintings outright?: Yes. The gallery can purchase a Bischoff directly, or offer consignment or a private sale if that suits the painting better.
Will my information be kept private?: Yes. Inquiries are confidential, and owner and buyer names are never published.
Is a small Bischoff study worth sending?: Yes. Small oils on board or paper, such as the gallery's recorded sales San Pedro Docks and Spring Poem Study, are part of his work. Include the measurements with your photos.