Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Rare Maps, Prints & Antiques in Philadelphia
Founded in 1971, Arader Galleries has established itself as the world's leading dealer and auction house specializing in rare maps, prints, rare books, and watercolors from the 16th through 19th centuries. With over five decades of expertise, we operate five galleries in vibrant U.S. cities and participate in premier antiques shows nationwide. Our unparalleled inventory includes the largest selection of original Audubon prints in the United States, catering to collectors across diverse genres.Our collections are united by historical significance, artistic innovation, and timeless beauty, reflecting pivotal moments in natural history and cultural evolution. Our team of specialists maintains the highest curatorial standards, building distinguished collections for private clients, museums, and institutions while supporting the interior design trade. We invite visitors to explore our galleries, engage with our experts at antiques shows, or browse our extensive online offerings.
Services
Rare Maps
Prints
Rare Books
Watercolors
Appraisals
Conservation
Framing
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of expertise in rare cartographic and natural history art.
- Our inventory includes the largest selection of original Audubon prints in the US.
- We maintain the highest curatorial standards for private and institutional collections.
- We provide specialized services including conservation, appraisals, and custom framing.
- We operate galleries in major US cities and participate in premier antiques shows.
Services
Rare Maps
We specialize in 16th-19th century rare maps showcasing historical boundaries, explorations, and geographic evolution. Our collection includes maritime charts, city plans, and decorative cartographic masterpieces. Each piece undergoes rigorous authentication and condition assessment before acquisition.
Prints
Our print collection features natural history illustrations, Audubon bird prints, and ornithological studies from renowned artists. We offer both individual pieces and complete folio sets with expert provenance documentation. Conservation services ensure long-term preservation of these delicate works.
Appraisals
We provide certified appraisals for insurance and tax purposes using industry-standard valuation methodologies. Our specialists analyze rarity, condition, and market trends to determine accurate fair market values. On-site evaluations available at our Philadelphia and New York galleries.
Conservation
Our conservation department specializes in paper-based artwork restoration using archival materials and reversible techniques. Services include stain removal, mold remediation, and structural repairs. Each project begins with comprehensive condition analysis and treatment recommendations.
Framing
We create custom museum-quality frames using hand-crafted period-appropriate moldings. Our framing solutions protect artwork while enhancing visual presentation. Services include UV-protective glazing, acid-free matting, and structural reinforcement for long-term preservation.
Questions
What types of rare maps do you specialize in?
We specialize in 16th-19th century maps including maritime charts, city plans, and decorative cartographic works. Our collection spans historical boundaries, explorations, and geographic evolution.
Do you offer authentication services for antique prints?
Yes, our specialists provide authentication services for prints using provenance research and material analysis. We verify artist signatures, printing techniques, and historical documentation.
Can you appraise items not purchased through your gallery?
Yes, we provide independent appraisals for items acquired elsewhere. All appraisals follow professional standards and include detailed written documentation of our valuation methodology.
What conservation techniques do you use for paper artworks?
We employ reversible conservation techniques including acid removal, stain reduction, and structural repairs using archival materials. Treatments prioritize long-term preservation while maintaining original integrity.
Do you offer custom framing for non-purchased artworks?
Yes, our framing services are available for artworks acquired elsewhere. We provide consultations to create protective, aesthetically appropriate framing solutions for any paper-based artwork.
Are your rare book collections available for scholarly research?
Yes, we welcome academic researchers by appointment. Our rare book collections include natural history folios, exploration narratives, and scientific treatises from the 16th-19th centuries.
