For some buyers the authentication, provenance, and valuation of an artwork may be of no importance whatsoever.
There is a derogatory term that is sometimes used to denigrate an artist’s work –“sofa art.” It is a snobbish term that implies the work was purchased not because of its intrinsic artistic value, but because it fits in well with the décor of the room in which it is displayed.
Nonsense! to the denigration. Art is for the enjoyment and edification of the viewer. The 1983 classic film “A Christmas Story” illustrates this concept perfectly. In it the father of the family wins a contest consolation prize that is a table lamp in the shape of a woman’s leg. It is unattractive, incongruous, and campy to all except the father. He thinks it is beautiful. It is a fine example of the meaning of the idiom “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”
The one advantage “knock-offs” have over traditional fine art is price. Attractive sculptures can be created using less expensive materials, and less expensive processes than those used to produce a traditional lost wax, investment cast bronze. There is nothing wrong with that. The only problem is when the “knock-off” is represented as something it is not.
But if you like it, if it appeals to you … buy it!
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