experience and discretion

Maria has more than 15 years working with both objects and fine art. Her career began as an intern at The Cloisters, part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where she gained a strong foundation in museum practice that continues to influence her work today. After leaving the museum field in 2012 she provided scholarly and market research to a private Art Advisory Firm in New York City. Maria established Black Oak in 2017.

Maria holds a BA in Medieval Studies from Fordham University and a MA in Art History from CUNY's Hunter College. Maria earned her Certificate in Appraisal Studies from the Appraisers Association of America, of which she is an Associate Member, and a badge in Appraisal Studies from NYU’s School of Professional Studies. She continues to take specialist courses and regularly attends appraisal conferences to further her education and stay current on the latest developments and regulations. She lives in the Rivertowns of Westchester County with her husband, Anthony, and their children.