I then see if the object would fit into my collection, whether it sheds light on an object which I already possess. All this absolutely has to be done. But it's true that if in the end I'm going to take the plunge, there has to be that little extra something. What you might call the 'trigger', the 'irrational act'. Yes, of course.
Quality is the most important thing for a work.
Perhaps it's a little subjective as a tool, but it always works at the last resort. For me it's got to have the label 'quality'. If the provenance is well established and you've got a certificate of authenticity, then you've some very strong allies. It like a casino with everyone excitedly watching the first turn of the roulette wheel. First of all you go to the expert, then you read the catalogue and the documentation, then you sound out everyone's opinions.