Masterpiece

After hundreds of years hidden away by an aristocratic English family, Velasquez's painting of his mistress is suddenly put up for auction. A bevy of art collectors and museum directors vie to win this beauty. At the top of the list of those competing are Olivia Cartwright the acting director of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art and Andrew Foster the director of Washington DC's National Gallery. The painting is being offered at a staggering price which will set an all time record. Who will win her? Alas, no one in this novel is who he actually appears to be. Machinations are rife. So is romance. Is the painting even genuine. This is a delightful intrigue for those interested in art. Along the way interesting tidbits are sprinkled of museum gossip and art history.

I have read and loved most of Thomas Hoving's nonfiction work, False Impressions, Making the Mummies Dance, etc. and loved it, but I was hesitant to try out his fiction. Now I'm glad I did. Sometimes over the top but almost always a diverting romp through the New York art scene that I love so much!