The price guide is therefore best used as a starting point. It shows the approximate price range for commissioned paintings of different sizes. The exact price can be confirmed once the main details of the commission have been discussed.
View the current commissioned painting price guide
Size is one of the main factors
The dimensions of the painting are one of the first things that affect its price. A larger work generally involves a larger working surface, which is why the price guide lists different size ranges separately.
Size should not, however, be chosen on price alone. It is also important to consider where the painting will be placed and what proportions work well in that space.
If choosing the right size is difficult, see the existing guide to selecting the size of a commissioned painting.
How to choose the size of a commissioned painting
Format also matters
Size is not only about centimetres. The format of the artwork is also important.
Portrait, landscape and more square formats behave differently in a room and may require different compositions. It therefore makes sense to consider the format together with the wall, furniture and surrounding space.
The final format does not necessarily have to be decided before making an enquiry. An approximate location and preferred size are already useful starting points.
Complexity affects the final quote
The prices shown in the price guide are indicative because the complexity of a painting cannot be determined from size alone.
One composition may be relatively simple, while another may contain more elements and details. The final quote therefore takes into account both the dimensions and the actual idea for the work.
You do not need to estimate the complexity yourself. A short description, reference image or idea is enough to start the discussion.
The amount of detail can vary even at the same size
Two paintings with the same dimensions do not necessarily require the same amount of work.
One may have a calmer composition with fewer elements, while another may rely on more detailed or complex content.
This is why the price guide uses ranges rather than one fixed price for every size.
Why does the price guide use ranges?
A price range gives a realistic indication of cost before the details of the work are known.
Its purpose is to help understand the likely price level before sending an enquiry.
The final quote is based on the individual commission.
View the current price ranges in the price guide.
Do I need a fully developed idea before asking for a quote?
No. A commission does not need to be planned down to every detail before an enquiry is sent.
It is enough to provide the main direction: preferred dimensions, approximate format, an idea, mood or photograph if one is being used as a reference.
The more relevant information is available at the beginning, the easier it is to estimate both the suitable approach and the price.
Do you need a clear idea before commissioning a painting?
What about a painting based on a photograph?
The same pricing principles apply when a painting is based on a photograph.
The photograph itself does not determine the final price. Size, format and the complexity of the requested work still matter.
A photograph is simply the starting point from which the direction of the painting can be discussed.
Turning a photo into a painting – what to consider when commissioning a painting from a photo
How to choose a photo for a commissioned painting
How to get an exact quote
Send an enquiry with the most useful information available.
Helpful details include:
- preferred or approximate size;
- preferred format, if known;
- a short description of the idea;
- a photograph or other reference material, if relevant;
- information about where the painting will be placed if this helps determine the dimensions or format.
An enquiry is used to clarify the work and its price before a decision is made.
The price guide gives the starting point; the quote gives the exact price
For a commissioned painting, the price guide and the individual quote serve different purposes.
The price guide shows the general price level by size and format.
The final quote reflects the complexity and details of the particular work.