Claude Monet (1840�1926) usually signed his paintings on the lower left or right edge of the canvas. He would write out his full name "Claude Monet" in legible, cursive handwriting.

In many cases, Monet included the date, sometimes writing the full year and sometimes just that last two digits. Monet's signature was often applied with black ink, but lighter, more impressionistic paintings are signed in a lighter hue, as not to stand out too much. Monet also signed many paintings in different colors, such as red, orange, blue, or lavender. Many of his signatures appear to be painted with a small dry brush.

Signature is rarely sufficient for authenticating a painting. Signatures must be checked, but results must be carefully placed in the correct context. A signature is only one element, and not a determining one, in the process of authentication.

Claude Monet was a prolific artist who created thousands of drawings, sketches, and paintings - many of which, he deemed not worthy of a signature.

When signed, Monet used both his given name, Claude, and his surname. Only his juvenilia differed in that he signed "O Monet" ( Monet).

The examples below, provided by the Art Institute of Chicago, demonstrate the range of signatures � from a favored translucent, bright red paint to a highlighted color used within the subject work.

The Beach at Sainte-Adresse, 1867

The Artist's House at Argenteuil, 1873

On the Bank of the Seine, Bennecourt , 1868

Arrival of the Normandy Train, 1877

Boats Lying at Low Tide at F�camp, 1881

Apples and Grapes, 1880.

Cliff Walk at Pourville, 1882

Monet Experts has analyzed thousands of Claude Monet signatures, and we can determine the authenticity of yours. Contact us to get started.