Do You Need a Certificate of Authenticity?

Quality assurance

When we started our fine art business over 20 years ago, archival inkjet printing was completely brand new and no one really knew what they were. As a testament to the quality, we decided back then that every print would include a Certificate of Authenticity. No other printers did this at time, so we wanted to assure our clients that their prints would last and that we stood behind the product we were selling.

The certificate served as a document outlining all of the important details about the image; title, edition number, print size and the artist signature. In our case, we also included production information on the back which reinforced the quality, care and handling of the print.

Certificate of Authenticity (front)

Certificate of Authenticity (back)

Building your brand

It’s been a while since we offer Fidelis certificates, however we always encourage our clients to consider produce one of their own. Not only does it provide a great opportunity to throw some personal branding in, but it shows professionalism and provides your end customer with the confidence that you are serious about your work.

Building a strong brand is so important these days, so If you don’t already have one, why not take the opportunity to throw in some personal branding of your own. 

Details from Certificate

1.0 Display Conditions

1.1 This print is rated to last over 100 years under museum conditions. Under normal handling, storage and display situations, this print will provide many years of enjoyment. As with any artwork, exposure to extreme environmental conditions will lessen the longevity of the print.

1.2 As a guideline, please avoid the following:

a. prolonged periods of sunlight or strong display lighting (≥ 100 ftcd / 1000 lux);

b. extreme temperatures (≥ 140°F / 60°C or ≤ 5°F /-20°C);

c. extreme relative humidity (≥ 60%);

d. submersion in or saturation by liquids to the front or back of the print, including, by way of example only, water.

2.0 Care and Handling

2.1 Due to their sensitive and water soluble nature, digital prints require the highest level of care when handling and framing. White gloves should always be worn when working with the prints.

2.2 Gentle dusting with a feather duster or non-abrasive antistatic cloth is often sufficient to maintain the print in a presentable condition.

2.3 Paper-based digital prints should be handled in the same manner as an original piece of artwork. Uncoated prints should be taken directly to a qualified framer and placed behind glass for maximum protection.

2.4 Treatment and handling of the print in a manner other than as outlined above voids any warranty expressed or implied.

3.0 Limited Warranty

3.1 Fidelis warrants that this print, when handled, stored or displayed in accordance to the guidelines herein, will be free from defects in materials, workmanship and visible fading for a period of ten (10) years from the following Print Date:

3.2 This warranty extends to the original purchaser only and is not transferable.

3.3 The warranty applies only to defects directly attributable to the processes and materials used in the production of this print.

3.4 This warranty shall not apply to any characteristics that are visible in the final signed proof, approved by the customer.

3.5 The warranty does not apply to defects, damages or imperfections caused by other parties including, by way of example only, the purchaser, shipping companies, dealers, galleries, retailers and others unaffiliated with Fidelis.

3.6 Fidelis’ obligation under this warranty shall include only the replacement of the defective print.

3.7 Fidelis shall not be liable for other damages including, but not limited to, indirect or consequential damages suffered by the purchaser.

3.8 Fidelis further warrants that:

a. the artwork presented hereof is original and that consent to use has been obtained from the Artist for this specific reproduction;

b. the Artist has full authority to make this agreement.

Let us know?

If you’ve added something specific to your Certificate of Authenticity, be sure to share within the community .