Crispian Riley-Smith

Spear’s Review

Crispian Riley-Smith, founder, managing director and CEO of Art Advisory Group, has over three decades of experience helping HNWs and other art aficionados with the valuations of visual art and objects. 

To assist with valuations, he works with an international network of specialists, all of whom operate under his no-minimum valuation policy. ‘We are happy to value the big and small through our network, and clients can be assured we have the right person for the job,’ the firm states. ‘We are considered a one-stop shop for all our clients’ art needs.’

Riley-Smith toyed with the idea of becoming an artist at the age of 16 but quickly found himself more drawn to the commercial and valuations side. After studying art history, he joined Sotheby’s as a graduate trainee in the 1980s.

He tells Spear’s that art dealing is something of a family passion – his father was a rare books and manuscripts specialist.