HS Code Subheading

Paintings, drawings and pastels; executed entirely by hand, other than drawings of heading no. 4906, of an age not exceeding 100 years

9701.91 Subheading
Section XXI — Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques

About HS Code 970191

This code covers original paintings, drawings, and pastels that are executed entirely by hand and are less than 100 years old. This category represents the contemporary and modern art market, encompassing works by living artists and those from the recent past. International trade is vibrant, involving art galleries, auction houses, private collectors, and art fairs across the globe. Importers and exporters are typically art dealers, collectors, and institutions. Key considerations include the artist's reputation, provenance, authenticity, condition, and market trends, which can fluctuate significantly. Valuation can range from modest to extremely high, often requiring expert appraisal and specialized handling due to the unique and fragile nature of these items. The market is dynamic, influenced by critical acclaim, major exhibitions, and the global art economy. This trade often involves significant logistical challenges related to insurance, customs valuation, and secure, climate-controlled transportation.

Products Under This Code

Oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, charcoal drawings, pastel drawings, ink drawings, mixed media artworks (predominantly painting/drawing), contemporary portraits

Real World Examples

Works by contemporary artists (e.g., Gerhard Richter, Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons), 20th-century masterpieces (e.g., Picasso, Warhol, Frida Kahlo), modern landscape paintings, abstract expressionist works

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with reproductions or prints (4911) if not an original hand-executed work, or with older artworks (970121 for paintings over 100 years) if the age is misidentified, or with other forms of art (970192 for mosaics).

Products Classified Under 9701.91

Industry

This code belongs to the Art & Antiques industry.

Trade Overview

The USA, UK, and China are leading global art markets, acting as major importers and exporters of contemporary and modern paintings, drawings, and pastels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 970191?

HS code 970191 covers: Paintings, drawings and pastels; executed entirely by hand, other than drawings of heading no. 4906, of an age not exceeding 100 years. This code covers original paintings, drawings, and pastels that are executed entirely by hand and are less than 100 years old. This category represents the contemporary and modern art market, encompassing works by living artists and those from the recent past. International trade is vibrant, involving art galleries, auction houses, private collectors, and art fairs across the globe. Importers and exporters are typically art dealers, collectors, and institutions. Key considerations include the artist's reputation, provenance, authenticity, condition, and market trends, which can fluctuate significantly. Valuation can range from modest to extremely high, often requiring expert appraisal and specialized handling due to the unique and fragile nature of these items. The market is dynamic, influenced by critical acclaim, major exhibitions, and the global art economy. This trade often involves significant logistical challenges related to insurance, customs valuation, and secure, climate-controlled transportation.

What products fall under HS code 970191?

Oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, charcoal drawings, pastel drawings, ink drawings, mixed media artworks (predominantly painting/drawing), contemporary portraits

What are common misclassifications for HS code 970191?

Can be confused with reproductions or prints (4911) if not an original hand-executed work, or with older artworks (970121 for paintings over 100 years) if the age is misidentified, or with other forms of art (970192 for mosaics).

How is HS code 970191 structured?

HS code 970191 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (97) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.