deceit

This page considers collectibles as commodities that may be misrepresented or may be forged.

It covers -

• introduction
• crooks
• studies

In complements a more detailed discussion of the forgery of antiquities, paintings by contemporary and other masters, and other collectibles.

     introduction

Demand for the unique and 'imperishable' has, as discussed in more detail elsewhere on this site, also been addressed through deceit. Forgery of antiquities, Old Master paintings, contemporary lithographs, presidential letters, literary first editions and autographed baseballs is one hazard in collecting - a hazard that on occasion burns leading curatorial institutions.

Misrepresentation by dealers and experts of items is another hazard, something that affects million dollar collectibles rather than merely what you might encounter in your local op shop.

     crooks

Great art is rare (although as the following pages illustrate recognition of greatness varies over time) and is often valuable.

That fosters misrepresentation by dealers and other vendors, with major auction houses and commercial galleries for example being known to 'look on the bright side' in describing works that range from tin toys to contemporary Australian indigenous art. Endorsement by a dealer or exposure amid red plush and faded gilt does not mean that an item is what it is claimed to be. Buyer beware.

It fosters turning a blind eye to illegal exports or sale of items with a problematical past (explored in the discussion of spoliation and repatriation elsewhere on this site).

It also fosters 'improvement' and outright faking of the objects of a heart's desire - antiquities, religious relics, rare books and manuscripts, oil paintings, lithographs, coins, baseballs and even murderabilia.

   next page  (corporate collecting)