1. Detailed Examination of the Signature:
* Style: How is the signature written? Formal? Cursive? Are there any unusual flourishes or letter shapes?
* Ink/Medium: What type of ink or paint is used? This can sometimes hint at a period or style.
* Placement: Where on the painting is the signature located? Top right corner? Bottom center?
2. Research and Resources:
* Online Databases: Try searching for the last name on art databases like:
* Artnet: [https://www.artnet.com/](https://www.artnet.com/)
* Artprice: [https://www.artprice.com/](https://www.artprice.com/)
* Christie's: [https://www.christies.com/](https://www.christies.com/)
* Sotheby's: [https://www.sothebys.com/](https://www.sothebys.com/)
* Museum Websites: Check websites of museums in your area or that specialize in the relevant art period.
* Art Reference Books: Look for books on artists with the same last name, focusing on the period and style of your painting.
* Auction Records: Websites like Invaluable or LiveAuctioneers may have records of sold paintings with similar signatures.
3. Expert Consultation:
* Art Appraisers: They can often identify artists and provide an assessment of the painting's value.
* Art Historians: If the painting is significant, contacting a specialist in the relevant period or style might be helpful.
4. Additional Clues:
* Style and Subject: Does the painting align with a specific art movement or style? This can narrow down the possibilities.
* Location of Purchase: If you bought the painting at an auction or gallery, they might have records or be able to provide information.
* Provenance: If the painting has a history or documentation, it could reveal the artist's identity.
Remember: Identifying an artist based solely on a last name is often difficult, especially if there are many artists with the same name. It may take research, time, and possibly professional assistance.