Signed Pieces Tell a Story—And They Might Be Worth More Than You Think

By Anita Mursic | Published: Apr 14, 2025

When it comes to collecting art, ceramics, or even vintage décor, there’s one little detail that can quietly add meaning and value: the artist’s signature.

As Savile owner and art-lover Anita explains, a signature on a piece—whether it’s a bold scrawl on the back of a canvas or a tiny mark etched into pottery—often signals that the work is either original or part of a limited series. And that’s where things get interesting.

“While the signature may be that of an amateur art student,” she says, “it’s likely one-of-a-kind, which lends value (and character) to the piece. A signature is also a great indicator of a piece’s potential worth.”

We love that way of thinking at Savile. A signature doesn’t just tell you who made something—it hints at the story behind it. Maybe it was a local artist, a student exploring their voice, or even a once-forgotten name with a growing following. Every piece has a past—and sometimes a future, too.

Real Homes, Real Inspiration

One of our customers recently shared how she styled a few antique art pieces she found at Savile:

“A gallery wall was a natural choice for our narrow hallway, and I quickly saw that I could be adventurous with our selection without worrying about matching your colours or frames to a lot of furniture. Maps, photographs and quilts are nice alternatives to traditional wall art.”
-Kathlene, Savile Customer

We couldn’t agree more. Signed or antique artwork can bring so much life and texture into the corners of your home—especially the unexpected ones.

How to Do a Quick Artist Check

When you’re browsing signed artwork or pottery at Savile—or while thrifting—try this tip:

Use Google Lens to scan the signature and search it in real time. You might discover more about the artist, their other works, or even resale value. It’s an easy way to turn curiosity into knowledge.

A gallery wall is a natural choice for a narrow hallway, and you can be adventurous with your selection.

Why Framed Work Costs More (and Why It’s Worth It)

If you’ve ever wondered why framed artwork tends to come with a higher price tag, here’s the inside scoop: framing is both an art and an investment. Quality framing protects a piece from sun damage, moisture, and general wear over time. It also means someone has already taken the time, care, and cost to present the work beautifully—often with acid-free matting and custom-fit glass.

Plus, a well-framed piece is ready to hang, which saves you the hassle (and expense) of custom framing later. So while it may cost a bit more up front, it’s absolutely worth it in the long run.

In general, I love a classic, thick gold frame for art, but certain pieces need black frames—or even no frames at all. “It all depends on the mood and vibe of the actual piece. I think a classic home should have all types of art: modern, abstract and classic.

Art is in the eye of the beholder, and when you find just the right art for your home, it truly becomes yours.

Why Investing in These Pieces Matters

Whether you're buying for your home, a gallery wall, or even just for fun—these pieces carry stories, skill, and soul. A signed or framed artwork is a step beyond mass-produced decor. It’s a way to collect things that reflect your taste and values: slow, thoughtful, and often sustainably sourced.

And even if the artist isn’t famous (yet!), you're supporting creative work and craftsmanship—something we value deeply at Savile.