The physical item
Each submitted photograph is physically examined. We review the signature's visible characteristics, including letter formation, structure, spacing, and style.
Autograph authentication & verification
A closer look
at the signature.
Physical signature examination and certification for collectors, buyers, and enthusiasts of signed photographs.
Each autograph is examined and compared with reference signatures. Certified items receive a Certificate of Authenticity linked to our registry.
Ink Vault Registry
Certificate of
Authenticity
The signature.
Examined. Compared. Documented.
Physical examination · Registry record
ILLUSTRATIVE CERTIFICATE · NOT AN ISSUED RECORD
Our process
From examination
to certification.
A focused review of the autograph on the physical photograph, supported by comparison with reference examples of the named artist's signature.
The reference signatures
The autograph is compared with reference examples of the named artist's signature. Similarities and inconsistencies inform our assessment.
The Certificate of Authenticity
Items that meet our authentication criteria receive a Certificate of Authenticity and a QR code sticker linked to the corresponding registry record.
Certification
A certificate on record.
A link to the item.
The Certificate of Authenticity documents our findings from physical examination and signature comparison. Its QR code connects the photograph to its registry information.
- Certificate numberThe record identifier
- PhotographThe examined item
- Signature detailsThe named artist or artists
Certificate verification
Start with the number.
Or scan the code.
Use the certificate number on your documentation or QR code sticker to open the associated record. Compare the photograph and signature details with the item in front of you.
A few helpful details
About the review.
Do you examine the original photograph?
Yes. We physically examine the submitted photograph and compare its signature with reference examples.
What does the certificate mean?
It documents that the item passed our physical examination and signature comparison, and links to its registry record.
Do you witness the signing?
No. Certification is based on examination of the signed item, not on witnessing the signing.
What is the QR code sticker for?
The QR code opens the registry record for that item — photograph, signature details, and certification information.
Does a registry match authenticate another item?
No. The certificate applies to the item we examined. Always compare the piece in front of you with the photograph and details in the record.