Fake or Fortune? Season 2 Episode 3 Van Dyck: What Lies Beneath

In this episode of Fake or Fortune, presenters Fiona Bruce and Philip Mould delve into the intriguing world of art authentication as they examine a portrait believed to be by 17th-century Flemish painter Anthony van Dyck.

The painting, titled 'Portrait of Olivia Boteler Porter', has been owned by the Earl of Jersey family since the 18th century, with previous owners including the Royal Society of Arts and the National Portrait Gallery. However, doubts have always surrounded its authenticity, with some experts suggesting it may be a copy of a lost original.

Bruce and Mould set out to uncover the truth by using a range of scientific and historical techniques. They begin by analyzing the painting's canvas and paint, using X-ray fluorescence to determine the chemical composition of the pigments. Using this method, they discover a previously unknown layer of paint beneath the surface, which may hold the key to the painting's true origins.

The hosts also visit the archives of the Earl of Jersey family to hunt for clues about the painting's history. They discover a 19th-century letter in which the family's agent describes the portrait as a "most curious and interesting" work by van Dyck, adding weight to the argument for its authenticity.

As they delve deeper, the hosts begin to unravel a fascinating story of intrigue and deception. They learn of a missing portrait, believed to be the original of Olivia Boteler Porter, which was known to have existed in the 17th century but has since vanished. Could the portrait they are examining be an attempt to recreate the lost masterpiece?

To unravel this mystery, Bruce and Mould call on the expertise of art historian Dr. Christopher Brown, who looks at the style and technique of the painting to try and establish its true age. He also examines historical records in an attempt to track down the missing original, shedding new light on the mystery.

Ultimately, the hosts must make a decision about the painting's authenticity, weighing up the evidence and making a judgment that could have a profound impact on its value and significance. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including art historians, conservators, and forensic scientists, each of whom brings their unique expertise and perspective to the fascinating world of art authentication.

In Van Dyck: What Lies Beneath, viewers will be treated to a gripping tale of mystery and intrigue, as Bruce and Mould seek to uncover the truth behind one of the most intriguing paintings of the 17th century. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply a curious viewer, this episode of Fake or Fortune is sure to entertain and enlighten in equal measure.