NOVA Season 19 Episode 9 The Fine Art of Faking It

The show NOVA is a highly acclaimed documentary series that explores the wonders of science, technology, and the natural world. In season 19 episode 9, titled "The Fine Art of Faking It," viewers are taken on a journey deep into the world of art forgery and deception.

The art world is big business, with some of the most sought-after paintings in the world selling for tens of millions of dollars. But with so much money at stake, it is not surprising that some people have attempted to create fake artworks in order to cash in on the lucrative market. In this episode, NOVA shines a spotlight on the technology and techniques used by forgers to create convincing fakes and the efforts of experts to uncover them.

The episode begins by examining the history of art forgery, which dates back to ancient times. NOVA reveals how some of the greatest artists in history, such as Michelangelo and Rembrandt, have been copied and imitated by forgers over the years. But with advances in technology and materials, forgers today have far more sophisticated tools and methods at their disposal.

Viewers are then introduced to some of the key players in the world of art forgery, including some who have been caught and some who have yet to be unmasked. NOVA shows how forgers often study the style and techniques of famous artists, in order to create works that are virtually indistinguishable from the originals. But even the most skilled forgers can leave subtle clues that give away their work, and NOVA reveals how experts use scientific analysis to uncover the tiniest details that betray a fake.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning images of some of the world's most famous artworks, alongside close-up shots of the intricate details that expert art historians and conservators use to authenticate works of art. NOVA also explains how advanced techniques such as X-ray analysis, chemical testing, and digital imaging are used to identify forgeries, and takes viewers behind the scenes of some of the world's most famous art museums and galleries to show how experts work together to deal with art crimes.

But the episode is not merely a catalog of techniques and investigations. NOVA also delves into the psychology behind art forgery, exploring why some people are drawn to such a risky and illegal activity. Many forgers, it is suggested, are driven by a desire to prove themselves as artists in their own right, or to make a statement about the value of art and the art world's obsession with money and prestige.

Overall, "The Fine Art of Faking It" is a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the world of art forgery and the people who dedicate their lives to uncovering it. Packed with stunning visuals and insights from experts in the field, this episode is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in art, science, and the human psyche.