Blockchain-Based Provenance and Copyright Protection in Artworks: Toward a Decentralized Collection Management System in Emerging Chinese Art Institutions

Abstract

This study builds a decentralized authentication system for art institutions to solve the information island problem and combat counterfeiting in traditional art tracing. Through the fusion architecture of blockchain and the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), distributed storage and cross-chain verification of work metadata are realized. Smart contracts automatically execute ownership registration, cross-border transfer, and other processes, and IPFS nodes ensure immutable storage of high-definition images and identification reports. A prototype system based on React.js and Node.js, integrating Ethereum smart contracts and the MetaMask wallet module. In a simulated commercial environment, a pressure test was conducted on 50 paintings and digital calligraphy collections. The system completed transaction confirmation in an average of 3 seconds, and the mass transaction reduced authentication costs by 62%. Specifically tailored to the practical needs of emerging art institutions in China, the program supports a hybrid collection management model for physical art and NFTs, and provides a reliable technical infrastructure for cross-border art financing.