Case Studies in Autograph Authentication

Case Studies

IAAB will progressively publish case studies illustrating how handwriting and document examiners analyze questioned signatures and documents in real-world situations.

These studies will present practical examples of signature evaluation, comparison methodology, and authentication challenges encountered in professional examinations.

Banksy "Girl With Balloon": A Practical Authentication Case Study

A case study examining a Banksy Girl with Balloon print, focusing on certification, signature analysis, and embossed features to identify inconsistencies.

Difficulty Level: Basic

Hilary Duff Signatures: A Case Study in Autopen Patterns

An expert analysis of recurring signature patterns observed in large signing sessions, highlighting the challenges of distinguishing mechanical and hand-signed autographs.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

When a Forgery Combines Multiple Signatures: A Warhol Case Study

An expert analysis revealing how a single forged signature can combine elements from different periods, creating subtle but critical inconsistencies.

Difficulty Level: Basic

Case Study: Detecting a Forged Alberto Giacometti Signature

This case study illustrates how a First Expert Opinion may reveal structural inconsistencies in a signature attributed to Alberto Giacometti before the acquisition of an artwork.

Difficulty Level: Advanced