Introduction

Andrew Graham-Dixon investigates the story of the 20th century’s greatest art forger, Han van Meegeren, who made millions during World War II selling fake Vermeers in Nazi-occupied Holland.

Outline

Following a trail of evidence across Europe, Graham-Dixon pieces together how van Meegeren fooled the art establishment – and even swindled Hermann Göring, selling him what was then one of the most expensive paintings in the world.

Looking at this tale of intrigue and double-dealing against the backdrop of Europe’s darkest hour, Graham-Dixon tries to uncover the motives of the master forger. Was he a Dutch folk hero, outwitting the Nazi occupiers? A cynical opportunist? Or even ruthless collaborator?

As Andrew Graham-Dixon discovers, this is a tale about much more than simply art forgery: a twisted, timely morality tale about the blurred lines between truth and fiction that poses uncomfortable questions about deception – and collusion. About what happens when we want to believe something a little too much, even when the evidence of fakery is before our eyes.

Production & Filming Details

• Production: BBC Four.
• Release Date: 09 October 2019 (UK).
• Running time: 90 minutes.
• Country: UK.
• Language: English.

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