Withers draws new clients with art team

Private client specialist firm Withers has formed an alliance with an art investment consultancy to market jointly its art team to a new range of clients.

The firm will talk to managers of private art collections, accompanied by specialists from Fine Art Wealth Management, to offer a one-stop service.

The demand for legal advice from art collection managers is gaining as art value increases. Previously, the private client team used to be the main contact for art matters.

Pierre Valentin, head of the art group at Withers, said: "We've identified what we think is a growing demand from wealth managers. The value of art has increased considerably in recent years.

"Some private banks have recognised art as a new form of asset class."

The investment company can provide art experts with financial advice, while Withers will aim to give tax