Where can i find a record of paintings,artists and there signature,work etc?

Question:

Where can i find a record of paintings,artists and there signature,work etc?

i have an oil painting which i bought 20 years ago,i know the artist was a young "up and coming artist" french lady.it does have a signature and date. i would really like to find out the origin/about the artist and of course has it any value!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: You should type in her name into any of the search engines and see if her name comes up. If it does not, try going into the French Artist's directory on line and see if you can locate her through there.
In which City, Country did you purchase this Art? Look through that City's Artist Forums and directories as well.

Or you can take good clear photographs of the artist's signature and painting, then go to http://photobucket.com/ or http://photobucket.com/ for free, and Up load and post the photographs of your painting to show to one of the following reputable appraisers should they ask you to submit them on line.
http://www.isa-appraisers.org/
http://ca.search.yahoo.com/search?p=http... link to more
http://www.wiw2u.com/index.cfm?fuseactio...
http://www3.sympatico.ca/appraisers/....... Free
Famous Appraisers for Rare Collectibles and Fine Art below;
http://www.christies.com/home_page/home_... on line appraiser available.
http://www.sothebys.com/
Antiques Roadshow on line appraisers on links below;
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/roadshow/....
http://www.canadianantiquesroadshow.com/...
http://ca.search.yahoo.com/bin/search?fr...
Lastly you can go to the Public Library and try researching the artist there.