Why would a smart New York investment banker pay twelve million dollars for the decaying, stuffed carcass of a shark?
Subtitled "The Curious Economics Of Contemporary Art". Reissued to coincide with the huge Damien Hirst exhibition at Tate Modern. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what makes or breaks an artist, and the branding which drives this lucrative market. with interviews with artists, collectors, auctioneers and exhibitors.
'If you read no other book about art in your life, read the one that's gripped me like a thriller for the past two days.’ – Richard Morisson
‘ This enthralling, revelation-rich trip through the “ money game” of the art market brings an economist’ s eye – and a dry, sceptical wit- to its absurdities.’
'Intriguing and readable'
‘ Don Thompson is an entertaining sceptic when it comes to contemporary art… a much-needed attempt to get to grips with the mysteries of the art market… Thompson’ s knowledge of markets and law is a convincing and informative read.’
