Collector Resources

Fine art and antique appraisal is a complex and multi-faceted profession that requires a deep understanding of both the art market and the history of art and design. In these articles, we dive into the world of art and antique appraisal, exploring the intricacies of valuing works of art while examining the historical and market influences that shape their worth.

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Under Attack
Cultural Heritage, Ukraine, Art Crime Guest User Cultural Heritage, Ukraine, Art Crime Guest User

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Under Attack

Ukraine’s Kherson regional history museum has been pillaged by Russian civilian and military forces under orders that intentionally rob Ukrainians of their cultural heritage. Known to have one of the most impressive and sizable collections of its kind, the Kherson museum contained precious objects spanning Ukraine’s history which Russian forces have systematically looted.

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Transylvania’s Curious Histories

Transylvania’s Curious Histories

In 2003, four college students in Lexington, Kentucky orchestrated a DIY heist, hoping to steal four folios of John James Audubon’s Birds of America from the Transylvania University Library’s Special Collections. The group failed at their intended mission and resorted to grabbing a first edition of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species and tasing a female librarian instead. Transylvania University, which also happens to be Lindsey Owen’s alma mater, tied Central Kentucky to one of the largest art heists in FBI history.

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Master Forger Icilio Federico Joni
Forgery, Art Crime, Connoisseurship Guest User Forgery, Art Crime, Connoisseurship Guest User

Master Forger Icilio Federico Joni

Of all the notorious forgers in art history, perhaps the most interesting relationship between forger and victim comes from the tale of Icilio Federico Joni and legendary connoisseur Bernard Berenson. Joni did the impossible, ultimately tricking Berenson with one of his forgeries, a game he would play repeatedly. Although Joni was originally interested in putting his mastery of painting and aging works to use for financial gain, he was eventually satisfied with the mere idea of fooling Berenson.

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