Written by Michael Manashirov, COO of Qollateral
Last Updated December 3, 2025 | 5-minute read
Qollateral specializes in helping collectors and investors tap into the hidden financial value of their most prized artworks. If you’ve ever looked at a painting or sculpture in your collection and wondered, “Could this be doing more than just sitting here,” you’re already on the right track. A loan against art offers a smart, discreet way to access liquidity without selling your cherished pieces or dealing with traditional bank requirements.
What Can Be Used as Collateral for an Art Loan?
Most types of original fine art can qualify for a loan. Even better if the piece already has a verifiable market value. These items often include:
- Paintings and drawings
- Mixed media artworks
- Sculptures and installations
- Limited-edition photography and signed prints
To be considered for art loans, the artwork should be in good condition, properly documented, and ideally created by an artist with established auction records or gallery representation.
Using art as collateral isn’t limited to just traditional pieces, either. Authenticated memorabilia, like rare collectibles and vintage film posters, can also be eligible, provided they have been professionally appraised. Those rare, vintage trading cards you had appraised a few years ago? The classic sculpture by your grandmother’s favorite artist that’s taking up space in the attic? Those all can be eligible.
As with most things, proper documentation is essential. Lenders look at authenticity, provenance, and current market demand. That’s where Qollateral’s expertise really shines. We review each piece using real-time market data and valuation standards.
How to Use Your Art As Collateral: A Step-by-Step Guide
Leveraging your art collection to secure funding is simpler than you might think. Here’s how the collateral loan process typically works when you get a loan on art with Qollateral:
Step 1: Request Preliminary Review
Submit key details and high-resolution images of your artwork for a preliminary eligibility review. The more information and high-quality photos, the better. This can prevent the back-and-forth of requesting additional information or pictures.
Step 2: Get a Custom Loan Offer
If the piece qualifies, Qollateral arranges a professional third-party valuation and presents you with a customized loan offer. There’s no credit or income check. We solely focus on your art piece.
Step 3: Transfer Your Art
Upon accepting the terms, your artwork is safely transferred to secure, climate-controlled storage that’s fully insured by Lloyd’s of London. You can rest easy knowing your art is being watched over by the best.
Step 4: Receive Funds
Funds are disbursed to you the same day via wire transfer, check, or cash, as you prefer. No more waiting for weeks for a traditional bank loan. Once your loan is satisfied, you get your artwork back in the exact same shape as when you sent it.
One of the major advantages of fine art loans is that no credit checks or personal financial information are required. Your artwork itself serves as the sole collateral. While the piece is held securely in storage for the duration of the loan, you retain full legal ownership, and any future appreciation in value remains entirely yours.
Why Choose a Loan on Art Over Selling?
Getting a loan against your art allows you to access significant capital without having to sell a valuable piece from your collection. An art loan provides flexibility and liquidity without disruption. This can help when you’re looking to purchase new artwork, cover a short-term business expense, or take advantage of a time-sensitive investment opportunity.
According to the Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report, the global art market exceeded $65 billion in total sales in 2022. This continued growth reflects increasing confidence in art as a viable financial instrument. It also shows how art stores value. With Qollateral’s art storage insured through Lloyd’s of London, you can have peace of mind knowing your treasured asset is fully protected throughout the loan term.
Borrowing against art is also discreet and fast. Ideal for collectors who value privacy and efficiency. Unlike traditional bank loans, there’s no need to liquidate other assets. You can also avoid gathering extensive financial documentation or going through lengthy approval processes.
What Sets Qollateral Apart in the Art Lending Space?
Qollateral operates out of the International Gem Tower in New York City and works with expert appraisers. We specialize in high-value, non-traditional assets. Our team combines deep knowledge in art finance with an enduring commitment to client confidentiality and transparency. We treat every piece of artwork with utmost care. You can also count on the discretion that serious collectors expect and deserve.
Whether you’re working with a multimillion-dollar masterpiece or a rare signed limited-edition print, Qollateral understands the value of your art. We understand that your art is more than a financial tool. It carries emotional weight. Our process is designed to be smooth, secure, and respectful of your time and privacy. We believe that every interaction is an experience, not a transaction. Please note: auction-quality assets will have the best value when records from prestigious houses such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Phillips are available.
Is a Loan Against Art Right for You?
If you own valuable artwork and need liquidity without giving up ownership, borrowing against your art could be a smart solution. This financing approach is especially useful if you want to avoid selling art in a less favorable market climate.
Your art collection isn’t just beautiful. It’s also a powerful, tangible financial asset with real monetary potential. A well-structured loan against art can provide you with access to the capital you need while keeping your cherished collection intact.
Explore how your art and collectibles can work for you. Visit Qollateral to request a secure, confidential valuation and discover how your art collection can bring you new financial possibilities.
