What the certificate should contain
A useful certificate names the artist and artwork, year, medium, dimensions, edition information if applicable, and a unique record or inventory number. It should be signed by the artist or an authorized issuing party.
A photograph can help connect the paper record to the physical object. For sculpture and editioned work, the certificate should also record the specific number or identifying mark.
Keep the record separate and safe
Do not permanently attach a certificate to a canvas or fragile backing. Store it with the invoice, shipping documents, condition photographs, and any correspondence that clarifies provenance.
A certificate supports authenticity but does not replace careful attribution and provenance. The strength of the underlying record still matters.