Tag Archives: Consignment Agreements

Fine Art Insurance

Curator Exhibition Insurance: Exhibition vs Dealer Policy

Curator Exhibition Insurance: Exhibition vs Dealer Policy

Updated April 2026

TL;DR: Curators should choose an exhibition policy for display-only loans and a dealer policy when sales or commissions are involved. The consignment agreement determines everything. Review it first—then select the policy that matches your exact role to avoid coverage gaps.

What Determines the Right Insurance Choice for Curators?

Direct Answer: Your role in the exhibition—curator only or curator acting as dealer—dictates the policy type. Everything traces back to the consignment agreement and whether the artworks are loaned for display or placed for sale.

As Principal of ArtInsuranceNow and a Certified Insurance Counselor, I see this question weekly. The distinction is critical for proper protection of fine art and collectibles in 2026 exhibitions.

When the Artwork Is for Display Only: Choose an Exhibition Policy

Direct Answer: For works loaned solely for exhibition, an exhibition policy is the precise, event-specific solution.

  • Insures each work at the agreed consignment value
  • Delivers true wall-to-wall (nail-to-nail) coverage
  • Protects the artwork from pickup through transit, storage, installation, the full exhibition period, de-installation, and safe return
  • Short-term policy tied exactly to your show dates

I always recommend adding 3–5 extra days at the end of the policy term. Shipping delays happen; these buffer days close potential gaps with almost no effect on premium.

When the Artwork Is for Sale: Choose a Dealer Policy

Direct Answer: Once commissions, selling fees, or any compensation enter the picture, your role shifts and a dealer policy becomes the smarter, more flexible choice.

  • Annual policy that covers every exhibition you organize all year
  • Blanket coverage—no need to schedule individual artworks
  • Wall-to-wall protection for transit, storage, and multiple venues
  • Often costs about the same as a single exhibition policy yet delivers far greater flexibility

Curators mounting several shows per year almost always find the dealer policy more practical and economical. Learn more about protecting your art collections here.

How Your Consignment Agreement Shapes the Insurance Decision

Direct Answer: The consignment agreement is the controlling document. It sets valuation, responsibilities, and insurance requirements—read every clause carefully before binding coverage.

Most exhibitions fall into one of two clear categories: works on loan for display only, or works on consignment for sale. The agreement tells you which category applies and therefore which policy form you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Curator Exhibition Insurance

What is wall-to-wall coverage?

Wall-to-wall (or nail-to-nail) coverage protects the artwork continuously from the moment it leaves its original location until it is safely returned, including every stage of transit, storage, and handling.

Can a curator use a dealer policy for a single exhibition?

Yes, but an exhibition policy is usually more cost-effective for one-off shows without sales involvement. A dealer policy shines when you organize multiple exhibitions annually.

How does receiving a commission affect my insurance role?

Any compensation—commission, selling fee, or donation—may reclassify you or the venue as a dealer, making the annual dealer policy the appropriate form.

Should I add extra days to an exhibition policy?

Absolutely. Adding 3–5 days at the end prevents coverage gaps caused by shipping delays or last-minute schedule changes and rarely increases the premium.

Does a dealer policy require scheduling every artwork?

No. Dealer policies use blanket limits, so individual scheduling is not required—ideal for busy curators handling rotating inventory.

Does a curator’s exhibition policy require scheduling every piece of art?

It depends, most policies require scheduling every piece being shown.

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About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC

President, Bernard Fleischer & Sons, Inc.

William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor and leading expert in fine art and collectibles insurance. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Call our New York office today at 800.921.1008 or 212.566.1881 ext. 111.

Art Dealer, Art Gallery Insurance, Fine Art Insurance

How Far Do Consignment Agreements Extend in Fine Art Insurance?

How Far Do Consignment Agreements Extend in Fine Art Insurance?

Updated March 2026

TL;DR: Most dealer policies value art received on consignment at the agreed value plus 10%. When dealers send works to other galleries, coverage and valuation depend on specific policy language — it oftenfalls into grey areas like “property sold but not delivered.” Always verify with your carrier or specialist broker at ArtInsuranceNow.com.

I was speaking with an art dealer recently while reviewing a proposal for her business. As we went through the quote, she raised a familiar but important question about consignments in fine art insurance.

Dealers typically receive works on consignment from artists and collectors — that part is straightforward. But what happens when a dealer consigns artworks to another dealer or gallery? How does coverage apply when the roles reverse?

What Does the Standard Dealer Policy Say About Property on Consignment?

Direct Answer: Under standard fine art dealer forms, property on consignment to the insured dealer is valued at the agreed consignment value plus 10%. This protects the owner while covering the dealer’s administrative and marketing expenses.

When I reviewed the policy forms for clarity, the Valuation section states: “Property on consignment: valued at the agreed consignment value plus 10%.”

One underwriter confirmed this typically applies when the insured is the consignee (receiving the art), ensuring the original owner is made whole.

Does Coverage Extend When You Send Art on Consignment to Another Gallery?

Direct Answer: The standard clause focuses on art consigned to you. When your gallery sends works out on consignment to another dealer, coverage is less automatic and depends on the carrier’s interpretation and your specific endorsements.

This is where many dealers get surprised. Another clause in some policies reads: “Property sold but not delivered and/or while in transit to the consignee’s or owner’s premises shall be valued at the selling price plus any accrued expenses from the date of sale.”

Valuation Challenges During Transit to the Consignee

Direct Answer: If the artwork is in transit to another gallery and has sold, insurers may apply either the selling price plus expenses or a dealer valuation method (such as cost plus 20–30% or selling price minus commission) depending on whose policy the claim is filed with.

One carrier offered a broader view: “A consignment is a consignment — whether it’s to the dealer or among dealers.” However, the classic insurance answer remains: “Maybe… it depends.”

This grey area is exactly why expertise matters in fine art insurance and collectibles coverage at ArtInsuranceNow.com.

For more on protecting inventory while it travels between galleries and shows, check our guide to fine art transit insurance options for dealers.

Key Takeaways

  • Review your dealer policy’s consignment clause carefully
  • Consider specific endorsements for outbound consignments
  • Document all consignment agreements thoroughly
  • Work with a specialist broker at ArtInsuranceNow.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Does standard gallery insurance cover outbound consignments automatically?

No. Most policies focus on inbound consignments to the insured. Outbound consignments may require review or additional coverage confirmation.

How is art valued while in transit under a consignment agreement?

Typically at selling price plus expenses or agreed dealer valuation. Always confirm with your underwriter for your specific situation.

Should art dealers get a separate endorsement for inter-gallery consignments?

Yes, in many cases. Speaking with an experienced fine art insurance specialist at ArtInsuranceNow.com is recommended.

About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC

President, Bernard Fleischer & Sons, Inc.

William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor and leading expert in fine art and collectibles insurance. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Call our New York office today at 800.921.1008 or 212.566.1881 ext. 111.

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