René Lahn
Independent art appraiser and advisor in the international art market
Certified Member, AAA, Appraisers Association of America
Certified Expert ISO/IEC 17024/SEC 02.1
Former Director and Senior International Specialist at Christie’s
René Lahn is an independent art appraiser and advisor with a focus on Post-War and Contemporary Art and over 25 years of experience in the international art market.
As a certified art expert in accordance with internationally recognized appraisal standards, he advises international private collectors, family offices, institutions and insurers on valuation matters and strategic decisions relating to artworks and collections.
Professional Background
René Lahn held senior positions in the international art market for nearly two decades prior to founding René Lahn Fine Art. He worked at Christie’s as well as with internationally active galleries in London and Zurich.
During this time, he was involved in the valuation, sale and advisory of significant works of Post-War and Contemporary Art, working closely with international private collectors and institutions.
His experience spans major consignments, collection valuations and high-value transactions across international markets.
Certifications
- Certified Member of the Appraisers Association of America (AAA)
- Certified Art Expert in accordance with ISO/IEC 17024 (SEC 02.1)
These certifications reflect both U.S. and internationally recognized standards of professional appraisal.
International Valuation Standards
René Lahn’s practice brings together two of the leading global frameworks for professional art appraisal: the U.S. appraisal standards (USPAP) and internationally recognized expert certification in accordance with ISO/IEC 17024.
AAA – A recognition within the U.S. Appraisal Framework
As a Certified Member of the Appraisers Association of America (AAA), René Lahn prepares appraisal reports in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), which are widely recognized, including for tax-related purposes before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
ISO/IEC 17024/SEC 02.1 – International Certification of Expertise
In addition, René Lahn is a certified art expert under the international standard ISO/IEC 17024 (SEC 02.1), which is globally recognized as a benchmark for professional competence, quality assurance and independence.
Bridging Two Leading Systems of Art Valuation
The combination of these qualifications unites the principal U.S. appraisal standards with an internationally recognized certification framework.
Relevance for International Engagements
For collectors, institutions and financial entities, this ensures that appraisals meet both U.S. requirements and internationally accepted professional standards.
Independence & Confidentiality
René Lahn Fine Art operates independently of market participants and commercial interests. All appraisal and advisory services are provided solely in the interest of the client.
Mandates are handled with the highest level of discretion and confidentiality, particularly in the context of complex collection and cross-border matters.
Clients include international private collectors, family offices, institutions and insurers.
International Practice
Based in Switzerland, René Lahn advises an international clientele of private collectors, family offices, financial institutions and insurers.
His work regularly involves cross-border assignments, particularly in connection with valuation, estate planning and tax-related matters.
Through his certifications in accordance with U.S. appraisal standards (USPAP) and the international standard ISO/IEC 17024, he is particularly well positioned to advise on international and multi-jurisdictional engagements.
Clients
René Lahn advises international private collectors, family offices, financial institutions, insurers and other institutions on valuation and art market-related matters.
Typical mandates include:
- Independent appraisals for insurance purposes
- Valuations in the context of estate planning and wealth structuring
- Tax-related appraisal assignments in international contexts
- Strategic advice on acquisitions and sales in the international art market
All mandates are handled with discretion and exclusively in the interest of the client.
"René Lahn is an exceptionally knowledgeable specialist with a deep understanding of the international art market. I have valued his expertise, professionalism, integrity and discretion for many years."
Press & Media
René Lahn is regularly engaged in international professional contexts, both through media contributions and participation in conferences dedicated to art appraisal and the art market.
His work and perspective contribute to ongoing discussions on valuation standards, market developments and the role of independent expertise in an increasingly global art market.