As the art market grows in value and complexity, so too do the legal challenges surrounding authenticity. The Knoedler Gallery scandal revolved around the sale of approximately 40 Abstract Expressionist paintings that were discovered to be forgeries.[1] The scandal unfolded when it was revealed that Pei-Shen Qian, a Chinese art forger, had created fake paintings, which were then passed off as works by famous artists like Robert Motherwell, Jackson Pollock, and Mark Rothko, among others. In this scandal Pei-Shen Qian produced fake paintings, attempting to imitate the styles and techniques of other artists. Glafira Rosales, who had a close relationship with Knoedler Gallery president Ann Freedman introduced the forgeries to Freedman and convinced her of their authenticity.[2] As a result, Knoedler Gallery sold the forgeries as genuine, earning millions in profit. When the authenticity of the paintings came into question, collectors filed a wave of lawsuits, alleging fraud, breach of contract, and negligent misrepresentation.[3]
