Wednesday 30th March 2016

Just before the Tefaf opened this March, it was revealed that a painting attributed to Lucas Cranach the Elder, that was sold in good faith by Colnaghi to the Prince of Liechtenstein in 2013 had been seized by the French police who are investigating doubts surrounding its authenticity. Rumours ensued and reports followed of other works under suspicion including, according to the daily newsletter, Le Quotidien de L’Art, Orazio Gentileschi’s Head of Goliath that had been on temporary loan (from a private collector) to London’s National Gallery until the end of last week. The Old Masters dealers at Tefaf maintained that the unfolding situation was not undermining confidence in their market. One dealer was more open: “There have always been crooks around, but now that buyers are spending so much money on art, they are being more careful about making sure there are no doubts about what they are buying.”

We would advise to always seek a provenance when purchasing an artwork.  There are many forgeries around and it is easy to get caught out.  A provenance will also add to the future value of  a piece if at any time it is put up for sale.

 

Best Wishes

Claire Moore BA(Hons)

GALLERY MANAGER

WELCOME TO THE FLETCHER GATE FINE ART GALLERY