Letters from Tomis

Irving, Clifford. FAKE! The Story of Elmyr de Hory, the Greatest Art Forger of Our Time. McGraw-Hill, 1969.

Clifford Irving’s FAKE! is a fascinating deep dive into the world of art forgery, centering on the infamous forger Elmyr de Hory. Blending investigative journalism with compelling storytelling, Irving paints a vivid portrait of a man whose skill in deception fooled the art world for decades.

What makes FAKE! so gripping is how Irving unravels not just de Hory’s techniques but also the psychology behind forgery—both the forger’s motivations and the experts’ willingness to believe in fakes. The book reads like a thriller, packed with intrigue, irony, and a touch of dark humor. De Hory himself is portrayed as a charismatic, enigmatic figure who sees forgery as an art form in its own right, challenging the very idea of authenticity and value in the art market.

Irving’s writing is sharp, engaging, and rich with detail, making FAKE! as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. Whether you’re an art lover, a true crime enthusiast, or simply enjoy a well-told real-life story, this book is a must-read. It’s a masterclass in deception—and a reminder that sometimes, the biggest frauds are not just the forgers but the art world itself.