For collectors and buyers

Sending documents should feel safe, not suspicious.

If a gallery or dealer asked you to use Proofenance, you are entering a defined, auditable process , not a random file upload. Proofenance sets standards that meet the level UK regulations require; these pages explain what that means for your privacy and the dealer's governance. For wider UK context, see art market participants and MLR 2017.

Sketch of a collector viewing abstract art at home

What happens, step by step

If a gallery or dealer invited you to Proofenance, this is the usual sequence. You complete only the steps that apply to your purchase.

  1. You receive a link for a named sale

    Your dealer sends a link tied to a specific purchase, not a generic marketing form or open upload page.

  2. You enter your access code

    A six-character code, shared only with you and the dealer, unlocks the workflow on your phone or browser.

  3. You complete explained steps

    Only what applies to your sale: identity verification, address confirmation, open-banking checks, or payment. Each step tells you why it is required before you proceed.

  4. Your documents are protected and scoped

    What you upload is encrypted, limited to people the dealer authorises for this sale, and retained only where UK law requires.

More detail on what Proofenance is

Read in depth

Each topic below answers a question collectors often ask before uploading a passport or bank statement.