Thomas B. Hess and David’s Plot: An Inside Look at the Art World’s Dark Underbelly
In the realm of art and commerce, the story of Thomas B. Hess and David’s Plot weaves a complex tale of ambition, betrayal, and the shadowy dealings that lurk beneath the surface of the art world. As a prominent art critic and editor for New York magazine, Hess’s influential voice had the power to shape the careers of artists and determine the value of their work. However, his involvement in a scheme to manipulate the art market would leave an indelible mark on his legacy.
The Rise and Fall of Thomas B. Hess
Born in 1920, Thomas B. Hess emerged as a towering figure in the art world during the post-World War II era. As the art editor for New York magazine, he wielded immense influence through his critical writings and connections within the art community. Hess was known for his sharp wit, incisive analysis, and unwavering dedication to discovering and promoting emerging talent.
However, Hess’s reputation came crashing down in the late 1970s when he became embroiled in a scandal that rocked the art world. The scheme, known as “David’s Plot,” involved the manipulation of the art market through the use of forged certificates and fraudulent sales.
David’s Plot: A Web of Deception
The mastermind behind David’s Plot was David Rosenfeld, a New York-based art dealer. Rosenfeld, with the help of Hess and several others, created a network of shell companies and fictitious transactions to artificially inflate the prices of specific artworks. The scheme reached its peak in 1978, when a painting by Mark Rothko was sold at auction for a record-breaking $1.7 million.
Hess’s role in the plot was to provide credibility to the forged certificates and justify the inflated prices. He used his influence as an art critic to write positive reviews of the artworks involved, further boosting their value. The scheme continued for several years, generating millions of dollars in illegal profits.
The Unraveling of the Plot
The David’s Plot unraveling began in 1982 when Rosenfeld was arrested for fraud. Hess was also indicted, along with several other art dealers and collectors. The trial lasted for months, captivating the art world and the public. In the end, Hess was convicted of conspiracy to commit fraud and racketeering. He was sentenced to prison, where he served 20 months before his release in 1987.
The Impact on the Art World
The David’s Plot scandal had a profound impact on the art world. It exposed the greed and corruption that can pervade the art market and cast a shadow of suspicion over the integrity of the art establishment. The scandal also led to increased scrutiny of provenance and authentication processes, making it more difficult for criminals to profit from forged and stolen artworks.
Lessons Learned
The Thomas B. Hess and David’s Plot case offers valuable lessons for the art world and society as a whole. It underscores the importance of transparency, ethical conduct, and accountability in all aspects of business, especially in the art market. The scandal also highlights the need for vigilance and skepticism, as criminals will always seek to exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain.
Conclusion
The story of Thomas B. Hess and David’s Plot is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the corrosive effect of corruption on institutions. It serves as a reminder that even those in positions of authority can succumb to the lure of personal gain. The legacy of the David’s Plot scandal continues to shape the way the art world operates today, underscoring the importance of vigilance and integrity.
