Imports & exports

Strict import and export regulations apply to art and antiques, and we guide businesses through all aspects of the process.

For clients looking to export artwork, we advise on applicable export controls. If an export license is not forthcoming, we can negotiate a solution on behalf of the client, for example by negotiating the sale of artworks to the relevant nation when their export has been denied. We also defend our clients' interests if a foreign government claims that the artwork was illegally removed or exported.

We advise importers on the tax implications of importing works of art, and help them to minimize their tax liabilities.

Recent work

  • Acting for an English client regarding the purchase of a painting after its export from the UK was vetoed.
  • Advising a national museum in the UK in connection with purchases of artworks for which an export licence was not forthcoming.
  • Advising a prominent London contemporary art gallery on their importation of conceptual art into the European Union
  • We have acted for collectors importing art into the US from the point of view of customs duties, US transfer taxes and state sales taxes.