How much less valuable is a copy than an original work of art? Consider Salvator Mundi, the painting that went to auction at Christie’s in November 2017. In 2005, when it was thought to be one of multiple copies of a lost Leonardo da Vinci work, it sold for just $10,000. Then a group of art historians caused controversy by declaring that the Florentine master had himself painted it. Among them was Martin Kemp, who commented that the work possesses an “uncanny presence” similar to other da Vincis—funny, considering that this quality is, by definition, difficult to pin down. This story is from Kinfolk Issue Twenty-Nine Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 49 Checked Out Why is hotel art so boring? Arts & Culture Issue 49 Cult Rooms The history—and future—of Luna Luna Park. Arts & Culture Issue 49 Last Night What did gallerist Selma Modéer Wiking do with her evening? Arts & Culture Issue 47 Thanks, I Hate It How to give feedback to art friends. Arts & Culture Issue 46 Puff Piece On inflatable art. Arts & Culture Issue 44 Hannah Traore The art world's next big thing is a gallerist.
