History & Theory of Art Authentication

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This unit introduces the basic theoretical framework and methodologies used in art authentication. The unit examines the history and theory of art authentication practice with a particular reference to the Australian art market. Students will gain a sound theoretical grounding in issues pertaining to art authentication. Topics and issues dealt with will lead to an understanding of the characteristics of a coherent approach to authentication, from a wide multi disciplinary base, including art historical, legal, ethical and practical. Issues considered will also include an introduction to common fraud approaches, using a series of case studies.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Students who successfully complete this unit will:

Develop a sound knowledge of the history and theory of art authentication practices

Understand the elements of art authentication procedures

Understand the reasons and benefits of a multi disciplinary approach

Be able to identify the key components of the authentication process

Gain an insight into the methods of the art forger