Conspiracy Theories The Rothko Scam
10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 Dive into the scandal of the Knoedler Gallery, where $80 million in supposedly authentic Rothko and Pollock paintings turned out to be forgeries. Discover the intriguing backstory of Anne Friedman and her connection to the mysterious Glafira Rosales. Explore the forensic tests that unraveled the fraud and the FBI's investigation into the art crime. Was Friedman a victim or complicit in the deception? This tale reveals the psychological tricks of con artists and the art world's dark underbelly.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Business Model Shift Created Pressure
- Knoedler shifted from 19th-century works to modern art under Lawrence Rubin and Anna Friedman rose through the ranks.
- The gallery's new business model increased reliance on high-value modern sales and created pressure to source rare works.
The First Rothko That Started It All
- Anne Friedman discovered a supposed Rothko from dealer Glafira Rosales and fell in love with it despite red flags.
- That first meeting began a years-long relationship that generated huge sales for the Knoedler Gallery.
Experts vs Provenance
- Provenance gaps and absence from catalogues are major red flags for modern works, yet experts' positive 'eye test' eased doubts.
- Friedman relied on respected voices instead of secure documentation to justify purchases.