Italian Authorities Dismantle Art Forgery Network

Italian authorities have dismantled a major European art forgery network responsible for creating counterfeit artworks attributed to renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Banksy, and Pablo Picasso. The investigation, which began in March 2023, has led to 38 individuals under investigation, including six from Spain, France, and Belgium. Authorities seized over 2,100 fake artworks, estimated to be worth around $215 million, and uncovered six workshops involved in the forgery process. Complicit auction houses played a critical role, issuing forged authenticity certificates to facilitate the sale of the fakes. The operation is viewed as a significant strike against art crime in Europe, with assistance from experts in Banksy's official archive. This widespread fraud highlights the ongoing challenges of protecting contemporary art from counterfeits.