How do I cite artwork I purchased from the artist who created it?

Note: This post relates to content in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook. For up-to-date guidance, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook.

Cite artwork you purchased from the artist who created it the same way you would document any artwork viewed in person, like a photo from a personal collection. If the artwork has a title, list it in the “Title of source” slot. Otherwise, provide a description. If you know the date of creation, include it. 

To learn how to cite the artwork in a caption, read our Formatting a Research Paper page.