Britannica Sources used in this answer

Why do forged artworks often bring higher prices when they are attributed to famous artists?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

kouros — Art fraud Kouros of uncertain provenance, formerly on display with the label “about 530 bc or modern forgery,” dolomitic marble; in the J. Paul Getty Museum, Villa Collection, Malibu, California.

Forged artworks often command high prices because they are deliberately attributed to famous artists whose genuine works are already highly valued and sought after by collectors and museums. The primary motivation for this type of fraud is monetary gain; when the demand for a specific artist's work coincides with scarcity, market prices rise, creating a lucrative opportunity for forgers to exploit that demand.1

By falsely attributing a piece to a renowned creator, forgers capitalize on the existing prestige and market confidence associated with that artist's name. Collectors and institutions are often willing to pay significant sums for what they believe to be a rare, original piece. This deception is frequently facilitated by the forger’s ability to mimic the techniques, styles, and conventions of a celebrated master, making the fraudulent work appear authentic to the unwary. Ultimately, the high price is a reflection of the market's desire for the artist's genuine output, which the forgery deceptively purports to be.123