KUED Programs

Fiona Bruce and expert Philip Mould explore the history of three paintings bequeathed to the National Museum of Wales when their owner died in 1951. It was always believed the pieces were by landscape artist J.M.W. Turner, but only months after the museum took ownership, experts branded them fakes and unfit to hang on the gallery walls. Now Philip sets out to prove their authenticity once and for all. And, as reported in the New York Times on Sept. 24, 2012, they succeed!

The tables are turned as art detective Philip Mould puts one of his own finds under the microscope, a painting he bought that he believes could be the work of 17th century artist Anthony van Dyck. If he is right, it could be worth a small fortune. But to prove it, the piece will have to undergo a thorough restoration, involving the removal of layers of paint - and then be authenticated by an impartial expert. Will Philip's reputation - and the painting - make it to the end of the journey unscathed?