The Mystery Conman
A con artist operates in the shadows of the antiques market. Known as the “Spanish Master,” his ingenious forgeries earned him tens of millions of dollars. Who is this elusive figure, and how has he managed to thrive unnoticed among the art world’s elite? New documentary Mysterious Liar travels from Europe to America in search of answers.
German archaeologist Stefan Lehmann is looking for clues. He was conducting a meticulous investigation, combing through the auction house’s inventory, examining every nuance for evidence of forgery. In some cases, the difference is obvious. The facial features on classical busts depicting figures such as Caesar and Napoleon are overly expressive and clearly out of sync with the period in which they are said to have been created. Still, indifferent dealers sold the works to unsuspecting collectors for huge sums.
This is one of the most interesting questions the film poses. It is estimated that as many as half of the items sold in the antiques market are fakes. For many dealers and auction houses, sales are everything, and perception can mean the difference between a million-dollar price tag and a worthless artwork. Because of this, the industry is reluctant to start a conversation about counterfeiting or to make reasonable efforts to confirm the authenticity of a work. That’s why archaeological whistleblowers like Lyman are so important and rare. Their investigations are often complicated by opposition from the establishment. Target museums and auction houses are threatening legal action against the crusaders.
The film also examines the growing market for sculpture, painting and other ancient artifacts. The new prosperity increased the demand for these items, which prolific counterfeiters were more than happy to satisfy. The dirty open secret is that these counterfeiters drive the art market so much that even Wall Street is feeling their demise.
On the most basic level, however, Mystery Liar also makes for an entertaining detective story. This movie is exciting and informative in every way.
Directed by: Sönje Storm
