Vault Canvas

Gallery Commission

Gallery commission is the percentage of the retail price that a gallery keeps when it sells your work. In the contemporary market, commissions commonly range from 30% to 50%, with 50/50 splits typical for primary-market galleries. The commission pays for the gallery's space, staff, marketing and collector relationships. Always agree the commission in writing before consigning work, and make sure the consignment agreement is clear about VAT, shipping, framing and any production costs. Knowing your commission rate is essential for setting retail prices that work for both sides and for keeping a consistent trade price across galleries. Track every commission against the relevant sales invoice in your records so your income, tax and inventory all stay aligned.

Gallery commission is the percentage of the retail price that a gallery keeps when it sells your work. In the contemporary market, commissions commonly range from 30% to 50%, with 50/50 splits typical for primary-market galleries. The commission pays for the gallery's space, staff, marketing and collector relationships. Always agree the commission in writing before consigning work, and make sure the consignment agreement is clear about VAT, shipping, framing and any production costs. Knowing your commission rate is essential for setting retail prices that work for both sides and for keeping a consistent trade price across galleries. Track every commission against the relevant sales invoice in your records so your income, tax and inventory all stay aligned.