The Price of Forgery: An Anthropological Perspective on the Value of Fine Art Open Access

Abstract

This is a paper about the relationship between art and value. I investigate the meanings of value and authenticity in the art world through an anthropological lens, using a case study of art forgery to show how a work of art can transition from priceless to worthless. I have used scholarly analysis of art historical and anthropological theory, contemporary primary sources, and ethnographic interviews in my studies of art, value, and authenticity. 

Table of Contents

Introduction...................................................................................................... 1 

Literature Review ............................................................................................... 7 

Knoedler Gallery Case Study ................................................................................27 

Ethnographic Research .......................................................................................34 

Authenticity .....................................................................................................49 

Conclusion ....................................................................................................... 62 

Bibliography ..................................................................................................... 67 

References .........................................................................................................70 

About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	Anthropology
Degree	B.A.
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Fine Arts Art History Anthropology, Cultural
Keyword	Authenticity Value Art Contemporary art Abstract Expressionism Forgery
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Robert Paul, Emory University
Committee Members	Anna Grimshaw, Emory University Linda Merrill, Emory University

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