L.S. Lowry holds a special place in British art history, celebrated for his striking portrayals of industrial life. Known for his iconic “matchstick men” and vivid urban scenes, his work continues to capture the imagination of collectors, keeping his original paintings in high demand.
Selling a Lowry piece isn’t something to take lightly—it involves several key steps. From verifying the authenticity of the artwork to selecting the right platform for sale, each decision is vital for getting the best possible result. Understanding the current market for Lowry’s work and partnering with a trusted gallery or expert can make all the difference in securing a successful sale.
This guide covers everything you need to confidently sell an original L.S. Lowry painting, ensuring it reaches the right buyers and achieves its true value.
Who Was L.S. Lowry?
Laurence Stephen Lowry (1887–1976) is one of Britain’s most celebrated artists, famous for his depictions of industrial northern England. His works capture the essence of working-class life with seemingly remarkable simplicity, yet their emotional depth resonates deeply with collectors and historians alike.
Lowry’s paintings — featuring factories, terraced houses, and bustling city streets — offer a visual record of a rapidly changing landscape. His distinctive figures and atmospheric compositions have cemented his legacy as a leading figure in British art, with his works fetching substantial prices both at auction and in private sales.
Lowrys most expensive painting ‘Going To The Match’ was sold for a record-breaking £7.8 million in October 2022. However drawings by Lowry often fetch anywhere between £10,000 and £120,000 and oil paintings start from approximately £80,000 into the millions. Generally speaking though the vast majority of Lowry oils available on the market will be priced in the region of £100,000 - £1,500,000.
For collectors, owning a Lowry represents more than an appreciation for art; it signifies a connection to a pivotal era in British history. His enduring influence and widespread recognition ensure that demand for his original paintings remains consistently strong.
Authenticating an L.S. Lowry Painting
Before selling a Lowry painting, authentication is essential to confirm its legitimacy and safeguard its market value.
Given Lowry’s prominence, his work has been subject to forgery, making expert verification a critical step in the sales process.
Signature & Brushwork
Lowry’s distinctive mark-making and painting style provide valuable clues to authenticity.
Provenance
A well-documented history of ownership and exhibition records strengthens a painting’s credibility.
Technical Analysis
Advanced methods such as ultraviolet light examination and pigment testing can verify a painting’s age and materials.
Due to the complexities involved, authentication should be handled by a specialist in Lowry’s work or an established gallery with expertise in British art. Ensuring your painting is authenticated before listing it for sale provides confidence to buyers and enhances its value.
Contemporary Six has strong relationships with a number of key experts in the Lowry field. From Art historians to leading art dealers (Such as Bill Clark, the owner of Clark Art) who was the leading Lowry dealer in the North for over 20 Years). We have also recruited Helen Morris who has over 20 years experience dealing in original Lowry’s.
Documenting and Cataloguing Your Painting
Proper documentation is vital when preparing to sell a Lowry painting. Lowry is one of the most forged artists so this is incredibly important. Serious buyers expect comprehensive records that confirm a painting’s authenticity, provenance, and historical significance. Essential Documentation Includes:
Certificates of Authenticity – If available, these validate the painting’s legitimacy.
Provenance Records – Ownership history, previous sales, and exhibition details. This can often be in the form of labels on the back of a frame. Click Here for a particularly good example!
Purchase Receipts – Original sales invoices or gallery records.
Presentation Matters
Professional high-resolution photography can significantly enhance how a painting is perceived by potential buyers. Detailed images should capture:
- Brushwork and texture
- Signature and inscriptions
- Frame condition and any labels
When selling an expensive artwork it is vital that you market the painting/drawing in a professional manner and to make sure the colours in your photographs truly reflect those of the painting.
Additionally, a good description should provide historical context, discussing the painting’s significance within Lowry’s broader body of work. An artist's work can change dramatically over the course of a career so it is important where applicable that a potential buyer understands that an artwork is typical of a certain period.
At Contemporary Six, we offer expert cataloguing services to ensure each artwork is positioned to attract serious collectors.
Exploring the Best Sales Platforms
Choosing the right path to sell your L.S. Lowry artwork is essential to unlocking its true value and ensuring a smooth, successful transaction. Every option offers its own set of benefits, but the perfect choice will depend on your priorities, timeline, and how involved you want to be in the process.
Auction Houses
Selling through auction offers access to a broad pool of international buyers, which can create a competitive bidding environment that may drive up prices. The prestige and visibility of having your artwork auctioned can also increase its profile, attracting attention from serious collectors.
However, there are some significant downsides. Auction houses charge high commission fees, typically ranging from 15% to 25%, which can take a substantial portion of the sale price. There's also no guarantee that the artwork will sell, and if it doesn’t, being exposed to the market may impact future sales opportunities.
Additionally, auction sales are often timed, meaning sellers face longer waiting periods before their artwork is sold. In this environment, sellers must carefully weigh the potential risks, including unpredictable bidding outcomes and the associated costs.
Art Galleries & Dealers
Working with a specialist gallery provides expert valuation and personalised service, ensuring that your painting is accurately appraised and showcased in the best possible way. Galleries also offer targeted exposure, connecting your artwork with serious collectors who are actively searching for pieces like yours.
In addition, galleries handle transactions professionally, offering a secure environment for both the seller and buyer. This professional oversight ensures that the entire process, from negotiation to sale, runs smoothly.
Where necessary a Gallery can reduce an artworks exposure, selling the work discreetly.
However, there are some drawbacks. Commission fees apply, though they are generally lower than those of auction houses. The sale process may also take longer, depending on market demand. At Contemporary Six, we specialise in Northern art and have built strong relationships with collectors who are actively seeking original Lowry works, helping to ensure your painting reaches the right audience.
Private Sales
Selling privately gives you direct control over negotiations, which means you can avoid auction or gallery commission fees. However, this approach also requires a significant amount of personal marketing effort to connect with potential buyers.
Without an established network of industry contacts, most private sellers may struggle to find the right audience. This lack of access can lead to undervaluation of the artwork or, worse, dealing with fraudulent buyers.
Another major downside is the high risk of scams, particularly when it comes to transferring money. While selling privately allows for more control, it can also be quite challenging without the necessary expertise or connections. That’s why many sellers opt to work with galleries to ensure a smoother, more secure transaction.
Appropriate Pricing of a Lowry Painting
To achieve the best possible value for your original Lowry painting, preparation is essential. A strategic approach to marketing, presentation, and positioning could significantly influence the final sale price.
Work with Experts
A gallery with expertise in Lowry’s work ensures the painting is properly priced, presented, and marketed to the right audience.
Comprehensive Photography
High-quality images and compelling descriptions **increase desirability** among collectors.
Preserve the Condition
Paintings in excellent condition command higher prices. Consider professional conservation if needed.
Highlight Provenance
A well-documented history adds authenticity and prestige, often increasing an artwork’s value.
At Contemporary Six, we provide an extensive range of services, from valuation to marketing and private viewings, ensuring that each Lowry painting is presented to maximise its appeal.
Selling an L.S. Lowry Painting with Confidence
Selling an original L.S. Lowry painting is a significant decision. From authentication to choosing the right platform, each step plays a role in securing the best outcome. Galleries offer a structured, professional approach that connects sellers with serious collectors, ensuring the artwork receives the attention it deserves.
At Contemporary Six, we specialise in handling original Lowry paintings, offering expert guidance at every stage of the selling process. With our broad market knowledge, established collector base, and commitment to securing the best possible results, we are a trusted partner for those looking to sell works by this iconic artist.
If you are considering selling an L.S. Lowry painting, contact us today for professional advice and assistance.
