THE ART OF THE FAKER

by Frank Arnau ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 4, 1961

A fuller explanation of forgery, particularly in the fields where fantastic prices obtain and therefore stimulate its practice, shows that the forger of ""real distinction"" is the ""genuine artist"", at any rate a perfect craftsman. Mr. Arnau's book, which is in itself a very faithful reproduction of the methods and materials and techniques used, discusses paintings, sculpture (more difficult to imitate- less in demand), printed works (incunabula, maps, woodcuts, etc.), objets d'art, ceramics, textiles, antiques (a highly lucrative and extensive field) primarily. The closing chapters provide the more interesting if less instructive dossiers of individual performers: Dossena, the stonemason, whose classical statuary shocked and rocked art experts the world over; Otto Wacker, who passed off 30 van Goghs; and van Meegeren who produced some flawless new-old Dutch masterpieces.... All in all, it is precise and painstaking and obviously authentic, but not for those looking for casual entertainment or the criminal curio.

Pub Date: May 4, 1961

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Little, Brown

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1961

Categories: NONFICTION