The primary purpose of tracing the Provenance of an object is to provide circumstantial evidence of its original production. It's also a way to trace back its later history, like in the line of its former ownerships. While this is not a guarantee, Provenance greatly assists in tracing ownership.  

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Art copies especially from a series from The Thomas Gallery will either have a special seal on the copy, receipt of purchase and sometimes a personal note from the artist; in some cases the personal autograph of the artist will help to legitimize authenticity. Those 4 will be the main ways to provide Provenance for the art copy.

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It's also recommended to make copies of all the Provenance and keep the originals with the copy such as in the frame with the copy. If you buy a copy for someone and you do not want to reveal the price seal the original and copies of the Provenance in different envelopes. Give the envelopes as part of the gift.

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