Frequently Asked Questions

I. The Basics

II. Artworks

III. Site Features & Navigation

IV. Pricing & Purchase Policies

V. Shipping & Insurance

VI. Cancellation Policies & Returns 

 

I. The Basics

 

What is fineartmultiple™?

fineartmultiple™ puts the variety and professional expertise of an international art fair into the hands of collectors by providing an online marketplace unlike any other. You can browse, buy art online, and resell artworks and feel secure in knowing that the works are 100% authenticated and just a click away from being sent straight to your door. Our aim is to bring you the finest selection of original art for sale from around the world. 
In addition to offering artworks for sale, we provide a specialized online magazine with up-to-date art world news and insights into the private collections of an international community of art lovers.
Since 2017 fineartmultiple™ is a portfolio company of AXA ART, a worldwide leading art insurance company.

Who does fineartmultiple™ partner with?

As an online platform for high quality editions and multiples, fineartmultiple™ partners with the best galleries and producers in this segment of the art market. Together we currently offer you a curated selection of 3000 original artworks. Click here to find out more about our partners.

How can I stay connected with fineartmultiple™?

Stay up to date with fineartmultiple™’s activities by signing up to our weekly newsletter or by following us on Instagram or Facebook.

 

II. Artworks

 

How do you guarantee that the artworks are authentic?

fineartmultiple™ only sells original artworks. All works offered on our platform are signed by the artist, numbered in a limited edition or accompanied by an artist-issued certificate of authenticity. In addition, each buyer receives a condition report as well as a full provenance statement with the FAM Proof of Originality. For details about what certification is included with your purchase, please read the information on the respective artwork page.

What is a FAM-E Number?

Every artwork on our platform is automatically assigned a unique FAM-E reference number which serves as an inventory number and is marked on the Proof of Originality issued by fineartmultiple™. Please note that if you ever choose to resell your purchased artwork on our platform you will have to produce this number as a guarantee of its authenticity.

Who can I contact if I would like to know more about an artwork I am interested in?

Our Service Team would be happy to answer all your questions and queries concerning the artworks. Contact us on +49 (0)30 2363 0280 or by email at info@fineartmultiple.com. We are there for you Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm CET.

Can I see the artwork in person before buying it?

As our partners are located worldwide we are unable to offer our clients the opportunity to see the artwork in person before purchasing it. However, our high-definition zoom function allows you to study every detail of each artwork—from the paper texture to the artist signature. With our website’s 3D viewing option “View in a Room” you can get an idea of the size and proportions of your selected item. You can find the “View in a Room” button next to the image on the artwork page.
The free fineartAPP can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play onto your mobile phone or tablet, and gives an augmented reality view of how your chosen artwork would look in your home.

Does fineartmultiple™ offer any framing services?

We do not offer professional framing services as this would increase both the risk of damaging the artwork during shipping and the transport costs due to additional weight. We would, however, be happy to ship your new purchase to your local framer. Please make sure to indicate your framer’s address as your shipping address at the time of purchase.

How should I unpack and handle art?

Extra care must always be taken when unpacking and handling artworks as they are highly prone to scratches and fingerprints. Removing the work from the provided packaging without gloves could cause irreparable damage to it, e.g. a visible fingerprint could leave a so-called “moon”. This would make returning the work impossible. Always use gloves or an equivalent form of protection when handling artworks.
  We suggest you frame your artwork directly after receiving it using a conservation-grade acid-free board as well as museum glass or UV-blocking Plexiglas. Photographs, prints, and other works should not be exposed to sunlight neither directly nor in part. Additionally, they should not be installed over heating ducts or radiators, or subjected to humidity levels exceeding those of the typical living space. Accordingly, photographs, prints and other works are not suitable for outdoor areas, basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Can I resell artworks on fineartmultiple™?

Yes. We provide registered users with the opportunity to resell artworks bought through fineartmultiple™ after a holding period of 6 months and by using fineartmultiple’s shipping and insurance services only.

I want to take my collection further—can you give me some advice?

If you wish to develop your collection, just get in touch with our curatorial team at collectors@fineartmultiple.com. For additional art market tips, trends, and insights visit our online magazine.

 

III. Site Features & Navigation

 

Do I have to register to make a purchase on fineartmultiple™?

You do not have to register to view artworks for sale or to initiate the purchase. You may, however, be asked to sign in in order to view prices of selected pieces.

What do I do if I forget my password?

You can reset your password by clicking “Log in” located in the top bar of the website and then “Forgot password?”. You will be asked to enter your email address and we will send you a link where you can update your password. You can also change your password in your account under “Account Info”.

How do I close my account with fineartmultiple™?

You can close your account at any time by writing to us at collectors@fineartmultiple.com.

How do I unsubscribe from the newsletter?

You can unsubscribe from all our newsletters by clicking “Unsubscribe” at the bottom of every newsletter.

 

IV. Pricing & Purchase Policies

 

How are prices determined?

fineartmultiple™ offers the finest contemporary artworks at the best market prices, entirely free of surcharges. The prices we give are the gallery’s own prices, offering you the highest degree of transparency in the purchasing process. Once you purchase through our secure payment system, we coordinate the entire shipping and insurance process.

Can I change the online currency settings?

The entire website can be viewed in Euros, U.S. Dollars, British Pounds, or Swiss Francs. The default currency setting depends on your IP address. To change the currency viewing options, click the currency drop-down menu located to the right of the site header and select your preferred currency. Prices of artworks are invoiced in the currency of the partner gallery.

Can I pay in my local currency?

At fineartmultiple™ prices of artworks are given in the currency of the partner gallery and must be paid in that currency for legal reasons.

What payment methods does fineartmultiple™ accept?

We accept payments from Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club International, and American Express. You also have the option of advance payment by wire transfer.
Since 2017 fineartmultiple™ has been a partner of Etihad Airways’ Loyalty Program, allowing you to spend your Etihad Guest Miles when buying at fineartmultiple™, using the Payment Provider PointsPay. During checkout tick the box “PointsPay Checkout” and click on the “NEXT STEP” button after providing your contact details. You will be directed to the PointsPay site where you will see the amount of Guest Miles needed for your order. At any time, you can leave the PointsPay site and return to fineartmultiple™. You can also pay by Pointspay that allows you to pay using your Etihad Guest, Swiss Miles & More or Membership Rewards loyalty points/miles only or with a combination cash. Some of the loyalty programs enable earning miles/points on the cash portion too. If you have further questions, please contact us on +49 (0)30 2363 0280 or by email at collectors@fineartmultiple.com and we will be happy to walk you through the steps.

Is my personal data safe if I purchase something at fineartmultiple™?

fineartmultiple™ places the utmost importance on confidentiality and as a matter of principle never discloses your personal data to third parties. Your data is securely handled and never visible to any other user of our website. Read more about this in our Privacy Policy.

Is my credit card data safe if I purchase something on fineartmultiple™?

We do not store credit card data. Your credit card details are exclusively stored by the certified credit card provider Six Payment Services AG, Switzerland, and/or your bank. You enter your details on the server of the credit card provider, and not on the fineartmultiple™ server. 

How is my transaction secured on the fineartmultiple™ website?

Your transaction is secured by SSL encryption and 3-D Secure Authentication for credit card payments. Our customers can complete transactions knowing that any information shared is within a secure environment and authenticated by a trusted Certificate Authority. fineartmultiple™ uses Six Payment Services, a Swiss Payment Provider, and their advanced SSL encryption technology to protect your personal data (credit card number, address, etc.) against unauthorized access. This allows us to transfer your data securely online.
Additionally, fineartmultiple™ uses 3-D Secure Authentication for credit card payments. To verify your transaction, you will be asked to enter your 3-D Security code. If you haven’t already done so, you will first need to register for “Verified by Visa”, “Mastercard SecureCode”, or “Amex SafeKey” with your debit/credit card issuer.
To learn more about our GlobalSign SSL Secure Site Seal, please click here.

I cannot complete my transaction by credit card, what can I do?

For your security, fineartmultiple™ uses 3-D Secure, an authenticated payment system to improve online transaction security. The objective is to provide a safe and secure online payment experience using a password that is validated by the card issuer. 3-D Secure uses SSL technology to provide a standardized and secure method of performing transactions over the internet.
When checking out with American Express, Mastercard, or Visa, you will be asked upon payment to confirm your credit card transaction by entering a 3-D Secure password. To participate in the 3-D Secure process, you must first register with your debit/credit card issuer.

When will you debit my account?

Your account will be debited as soon as we confirm the purchase to you. Up to that point we only make a reservation of the purchase amount on your credit card, as is often the case with hotel bookings. At this point, we have not yet withdrawn the funds and will only do so after receiving sales confirmation from our gallery partner. We do this to ensure the artwork is available, in excellent condition, and ready to be shipped. Please note that this might take up to 3 days. You can view a summary of your order anytime by logging into your fineartmultiple™ account.

Where is my invoice?

Upon completing your order you will receive an electronic invoice via email. You will also receive a hard copy in the post in your After Sales Package, which we will send to you before your artwork arrives. This also includes the terms and conditions of the partner gallery, the FAM Proof of Originality, a condition report, instructions on how to unpack your artwork, and a pair of white art handling gloves.

How do I estimate duties and taxes on my purchase?

European Union

All shipping and insurance costs, duties and taxes are viewable upon checkout. These fees will vary according to your shipping address as they are charged in adherence to your country’s current rates. The default setting of these costs depends on your IP address. To calculate duties and taxes on your final order, add the item to your shopping cart and enter your address on your cart page.

Non-EU

All shipping and insurance costs are viewable upon checkout. These fees will vary according to your shipping address as they are charged in adherence to the destination of the artwork. You will receive a separate invoice by our carrier for any import taxes and duties, subject to your local VAT. Please ensure you pay these custom duties to the carrier, as the artwork will only be delivered to you after customs clearance.  

 

V. Shipping & Insurance

 

How will my purchase be delivered?

Artworks are professionally packaged by the gallery or publisher. Packaging and delivery method will vary according to the type of work.

Where does fineartmultiple™ ship to?

We ship worldwide. Designated art shipping carriers may be required for certain countries.

Which shipping carriers does fineartmultiple™ use?

fineartmultiple™ works with FedEx Art Transportation Services for all purchases under 25,000.00 EUR and up to a weight of 15 kilograms. For purchases that exceed this amount we use designated art shipping carriers. Both are reputable full service carriers with premium 24/7 shipment monitoring. In the case of purchases exceeding 25,000.00 EUR or 15 kilograms, fineartmultiple™ will be notified during the checkout process, provide a shipping quote, and contact you with further information on the process.

How are shipping costs calculated?

In addition to the shipping address, shipping costs will vary depending on the price, the dimensions, and the weight of the artwork purchased. Estimated shipping costs on the artwork page depend on your IP address. To calculate the final shipping costs, just add the item to your shopping cart and enter your address on your cart page.

When will my order be dispatched and delivered?

Processing and shipping times depend on the origin and the destination of the artwork purchased. Parcels are generally dispatched within 5-10 working days. Please allow a maximum of 21-30 working days to receive your artwork. You will receive an electronic notification and tracking number via email once your purchase has been dispatched.

Why might a shipment be delayed?

Shipments can be delayed for a number of unforeseen reasons, e.g. problems with customs clearing procedures. This process could take up to 30 days. Please be sure to check your country’s international import regulations before making an order. fineartmultiple™ is not liable for any costs incurred. You will find the shipping origin of each artwork in the “Service Details” on the artwork page.

Does fineartmultiple™ offer expedited delivery?

At this time we cannot guarantee expedited delivery. However, if you are in need of expedited shipping, please contact us on +49 (0)30 2363 0280 or by email at collectors@fineartmultiple.com and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Can I combine multiple items into one shipment?

The artworks offered on fineartmultiple ™ come from various galleries worldwide. Therefore, only one work per transaction can be purchased. If you are interested in more than one work and would like to combine multiple items in one purchase, please contact our Collector Service on +49 (0) 30 2363 0280 or by email at collectors@fineartmultiple.com. We are happy to help.

Why do I have to sign for my package?

Due to the valuable nature of the artworks, all parcels must be accepted and signed for upon delivery. fineartmultiple™ is not responsible for any parcel left unattended.

What does the shipping insurance cover?

Our basic shipping insurance will be applied upon check out and covers door-to-door handling. Any risk of loss or physical damage to the artwork due to external causes during transport is therefore insured.  

 

VI. Cancellation Policies & Returns

 

How long is the return period?

If you are a customer living in the European Union the legal return period is 14 days after receipt of your order. Please note that returns are only possible if in accordance with the Terms & Conditions of the seller and with a return authorization number (RAN) issued by fineartmultiple™ due to insurance reasons.

How do I return an artwork?

Please contact our Collector Service first! If in accordance with the Terms & Conditions of the seller, we will provide you with a return authorization number (RAN). Please note that you cannot return the artwork without a RAN number, as in this case the artwork will not be insured. It is mandatory to use the same carrier for returns. fineartmultiple™ is not responsible for any damages or loss occurring through unauthorized return shipping and will in this case not be able to release your refund.
Please keep the original packaging in which the artwork was sent or send back the artwork in equally appropriate packaging for return shipping.

I appear to have received the wrong item. What do I do?

Immediately contact Collector Service with your order number and a description of what was mistakenly delivered. We will provide a return authorization number (RAN) and take care of replacing your order.

What should I do if I receive a damaged item?

All damaged items must be reported within 24 hours of delivery. To file a damage report please send detailed photographs of the damage to Collector Service, along with your name, order number, artist, artwork title, and FAM-E number.
We will provide a return authorization number (RAN) and take care of replacing your order. Please note that you cannot return the artwork without a RAN number as the artwork would not be insured. It is mandatory to use the same carrier for returns. fineartmultiple™ is not responsible for any damages or loss occurring through unauthorized return shipping.

Can I have a return item picked up at my home or workplace?

Yes. All return items will be picked up for return shipping by fineartmultiple™ at your desired location through a carrier assigned by us.

When will I get my money back?

Your refund will be released as soon as the return has been processed, after approximately 30 days. The funds will be returned to the account or credit card used for the purchase.
Please note that if returning a work for reasons other than damage or mistaken delivery, the costs of return shipping and insurance will be deducted from your deposit.

If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to contact our Collector Service on +49 (0)30 2363 0280 or by email at collectors@fineartmultiple.com. We are available for you Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm CET.