Letters from Tomis

Book Review

Salisbury, Laney, and Aly Sujo. Provenance: How a Con Man and a Forger Rewrote the History of Modern Art. Penguin, 2009.

Overview

Provenance: How a Con Man and a Forger Rewrote the History of Modern Art by Laney Salisbury and Aly Sujo is a gripping true-crime narrative that delves into one of the most audacious art frauds in history. It follows the exploits of John Drewe, a cunning con artist, and John Myatt, a talented but struggling painter, as they manipulate the art world by forging and fabricating historical records to sell fake masterpieces.

Strengths

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its meticulous research. Salisbury and Sujo have pieced together an intricate web of deception, providing a detailed and engaging account of how Drewe infiltrated the art world’s most trusted institutions. Their ability to explain complex art authentication processes in an accessible way makes the book both educational and thrilling.

The writing is fast-paced and immersive, resembling a crime novel more than a straightforward historical account. The psychological depth given to Drewe and Myatt adds to the intrigue, making them compelling figures rather than one-dimensional villains. The exploration of the vulnerability of the art market—where trust and reputation often outweigh scientific analysis—is particularly thought-provoking.

Weaknesses

While the book is engaging, some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming, particularly in sections that delve deep into archival manipulations. At times, the narrative jumps between different perspectives and timelines, which can be a bit disorienting.

Additionally, while Myatt’s moral struggle is explored, Drewe remains somewhat enigmatic. Despite his central role in the fraud, the book doesn’t fully unpack his motivations beyond greed and a desire for intellectual superiority. Some readers may wish for a deeper psychological profile.

Final Verdict

Provenance is an excellent read for anyone interested in true crime, art history, or con artistry. It balances factual accuracy with engaging storytelling, shedding light on both the brilliance and the flaws of the art authentication system. While the dense details may slow the pace for some readers, the overall narrative remains compelling and rewarding.