Art Stories - Blog
Art Stories - Blog
Greek Art Abroad: How International Collectors Are Rediscovering Our Masters.
Athens, 21/2/2025
In recent years, Greek art has been experiencing a remarkable resurgence on the international stage, capturing the imagination of collectors and connoisseurs alike. From major auction houses in London and New York to prestigious galleries in Paris, an electrifying buzz surrounds the rediscovery of Greek masters. But what is fueling this fervor, and why are collectors suddenly scrambling to acquire these once-overlooked treasures?
The air at Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Bonhams has been charged with an almost palpable excitement as Greek artworks shatter expectations and records. The thrill of bidding wars over pieces by Yiannis Moralis, Konstantinos Parthenis, and Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika has left many wondering: have we been sleeping on a goldmine? Once perceived as niche, Greek art is now a high-stakes game, drawing in international collectors who recognize its untapped potential. The adrenaline rush of securing a piece before prices skyrocket is an intoxicating force in itself.
There’s an undeniable allure when an artwork gains institutional validation. When museums like the Louvre, the Tate Modern, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcase Greek masters, it’s not just an exhibition—it’s a statement. Owning a piece of art that has shared space with revered icons feeds the collector’s need for status, belonging, and exclusivity. The Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation and similar initiatives have become catalysts for elevating Greek art from hidden gem to must-have masterpiece, driving a feverish demand among elite buyers.
Beyond historical masters, the avant-garde spirit of contemporary Greek artists is captivating a new generation of collectors. Artists like Jannis Kounellis, Takis, and Lucas Samaras have long enjoyed international acclaim, but now a wave of daring, digitally-savvy creators is shaking up the art world. Whether through NFTs, immersive installations, or provocative social commentary, these artists tap into deep psychological currents—nostalgia, rebellion, and the eternal human craving for meaning. Art Basel and Frieze are no longer just exhibits; they are battlegrounds where the boldest visions command attention—and premium price tags.
Behind the glitz and glamour of skyrocketing sales and growing international recognition, a darker reality is unfolding. Greek art dealers, gallerists, and auction houses are locked in fierce rivalries, with accusations of fraud and counterfeiting shaking the industry. Lawsuits and public feuds have become commonplace, as rival experts challenge the authenticity of prized works and question the credibility of their competitors. Whispered allegations swirl around forged Parthenis paintings, dubious provenance claims, and backroom deals that have left the market both electrified and deeply divided.
For collectors, this war is both a risk and an opportunity. On one hand, they must tread carefully, ensuring they buy from reputable sources with ironclad authentication. On the other, the chaos is creating moments of weakness—where some of the most valuable and legitimate works are slipping through the cracks, waiting for the right buyer to seize them before the dust settles.
Why are Greek art prices climbing? Because the market is catching on. The human psyche is wired to react to scarcity and momentum, and Greek art offers both. With limited masterpieces available and a surge in global interest, collectors are moving swiftly to secure their place before the next price hike. The undervaluation of Greek artists relative to their European peers makes this moment ripe with opportunity—one that seasoned investors are seizing with the urgency of a once-in-a-lifetime deal.
Greek art is no longer a quiet secret—it is a roaring force on the global stage. The excitement, the prestige, the undeniable sense of history and future colliding—all of it is culminating in an era of unprecedented opportunity. The only question that remains: will you be a spectator, or will you claim your piece of this thrilling renaissance?
Achilleas Tsantilis
Art Expert, Greek Court of Justice
President, Hellenic Association of Art Experts
Tsantilis Art | Est. 1925
Gallery & Official Art Experts of the Greek State
📍 5 Sekeri St., Kolonaki, Athens, Greece
📞 +30 210 360 5337
✉️ [email protected]
🌐 www.artmodern.gr
Angelos Giallinas: His legacy and the challenges of authenticating his work.
Athens, 20/2/2025
Angelos Giallinas (Άγγελος Γιαλλινάς) was a distinguished Greek painter, renowned for his exceptional watercolor landscapes. Born on March 5, 1857, in Corfu, he became one of the last prominent figures of the Heptanese School of Art.
Early Life and Education
Giallinas began his artistic journey under the mentorship of Charalambos Pachis at his private art school in Corfu from 1872 to 1875. To further hone his skills, he pursued studies in Venice, Naples, and Rome, where he developed a profound appreciation for watercolor painting. By 1878, he had returned to Corfu, fully committed to this medium.
Artistic Career
Giallinas's talent quickly garnered attention. He participated in the Panhellenic Exhibitions in Athens and held his first solo exhibition in 1886. A significant milestone in his career was meeting British Ambassador Clare Ford, who commissioned him to create landscape albums featuring scenes from Venice, Spain, Rhodes, and Istanbul. This collaboration led to an exhibition in London from 1891 to 1892, expanding his recognition among European nobility.
In 1900, Giallinas showcased his work at the Exposition Universelle in Paris. Two years later, he established a private art school in Corfu, nurturing the next generation of artists. Between 1907 and 1908, he was commissioned to paint murals at the Achilleion Palace, a testament to his esteemed reputation. His most extensive exhibition took place in 1918 at the Galerie D’Art Geo in Athens.
Artistic Style and Legacy
Giallinas's work is characterized by his masterful use of watercolors to depict serene landscapes, often drawing inspiration from his native Corfu and his travels. His paintings are celebrated for their delicate interplay of light and color, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean environment. Many of his works are displayed in the Royal Palace in the UK, the Presidential Ex-Palace in Munich, and in numerous collections around the world, including almost all the royal families of Europe.
His aristocratic background and connections to European royalty played a key role in his career. His residence in Corfu, an architectural gem reflecting his refined artistic taste, became a gallery after his passing. However, in 2010, several of his paintings were stolen from the mansion, sparking efforts for restoration and security improvements. Today, his artworks are housed in esteemed institutions such as the National Gallery of Greece, the Municipal Gallery of Corfu, and the Municipal Gallery of Larissa.
During my father’s time, Giallinas’s son was a frequent visitor to our gallery, and Angelos Giallinas himself had visited our Athenian gallery and frame shop. A crucial aspect of his work, often overlooked, is that many of his students—some even during his lifetime—produced works remarkably similar to his own. These paintings, created with similar mediums and stylistic approaches, can appear indistinguishable to an untrained or inexperienced eye. However, a key difference lies in their execution: some lack the fluidity and masterful blending of colors characteristic of Giallinas. Their tonal range is often more limited, and while their signatures and general style attempt to imitate their master, they do not always achieve the same level of finesse. This historical reality has contributed to the complexity of authenticating his works today.
After Giallinas’s death, other Corfiot and Athenian artists attempted to replicate his style, though most of these efforts were less successful than those of his direct students. While their compositions and general approach mimicked his aesthetic, they often fell short in technique, particularly in the subtle interplay of colors and light that defined his mastery.
During the first decade of the 21st century, many fake works attributed to Giallinas were discovered in a basement in Corfu. These forgeries, created long after his death, were of varying quality but lacked the refinement and depth of his authentic pieces. Authorities and experts took action, and many of these counterfeits were ultimately destroyed, reinforcing the necessity for meticulous authentication in the art market.
A particularly concerning issue in Corfu is that many local collectors have fallen victim to fraud involving Giallinas’s works. Due to the strong social status attached to owning his paintings—often considered proof of an aristocratic background—wealthy individuals in Corfu have been targeted by forgers. Over the years, numerous fake pieces have surfaced, damaging not only private collections but also the island’s rich artistic heritage. This ongoing problem underscores the critical importance of expert authentication in preserving the legacy of Angelos Giallinas and Corfu’s artistic tradition.
Epilogue
Angelos Giallinas’s legacy extends far beyond his mesmerizing watercolors. His influence shaped generations of Greek artists, and his works remain a testament to the beauty of the Ionian landscape. However, as with many great masters, his popularity has made his name a target for forgers, both past and present. The ongoing battle between genuine artistry and deception highlights the crucial role of experts in safeguarding artistic heritage. His true works continue to captivate audiences worldwide, ensuring that his artistic brilliance endures for future generations.
Despite his lasting impact, it is a tragic reality that his home in Corfu is now in a state of neglect, and his artistic presence in the city has diminished. This is largely due to the lack of interest from local authorities—a disgraceful oversight that has resulted in the erosion of Corfu’s artistic and cultural heritage. Giallinas’s legacy deserves far greater recognition and protection, both for the sake of historical preservation and for the enrichment of future generations.
Achilleas Tsantilis
Art Expert, Greek Court of Justice
President, Hellenic Association of Art Experts
Tsantilis Art | Est. 1925
Gallery & Official Art Experts of the Greek State
📍 5 Sekeri St., Kolonaki, Athens, Greece
📞 +30 210 360 5337
✉️ [email protected]
🌐 www.artmodern.gr
Press Release: Hellenic & Cypriot Association of Art Experts Warns Against Counterfeit Artworks in Cyprus' Art Market
Cyprus, 18 / 2 / 25 — The Hellenic & Cypriot Association of Art Experts is issuing a critical warning regarding the rising prevalence of counterfeit artworks in the Cypriot art market. Recent investigations reveal that over 50% of artworks attributed to prominent 19th and 20th-century Greek and Cypriot artists—including Tilemachos Kanthos, Pol Georgiou, Spyros Vassiliou, Alekos Fassianos, Yannis Tsarouchis, and Konstantinos Parthenis—are, in fact, forgeries.
As the demand for these artists’ works grows, forgers are increasingly targeting Cypriot and Greek artworks, using sophisticated methods to deceive collectors and investors. This has led to the influx of fake artworks into galleries, auctions, and private collections, posing a significant threat to both individual collectors and the integrity of the art market.
The Association urges collectors to be vigilant and exercise caution when purchasing artworks in Cyprus, especially from auctions and galleries where disclaimers of non-responsibility regarding authenticity are commonplace. The lack of oversight and the increasing sophistication of forgeries make it essential for art buyers to verify the authenticity of any artwork before making a purchase.
The Hellenic & Cypriot Association of Art Experts recommends engaging with professional appraisers and art experts to protect against the growing problem of counterfeit art. By taking steps to verify provenance and authenticity, collectors can ensure their investments are secure and preserve the cultural value of their collections.
The Hellenic & Cypriot Association of Art Experts is a professional body dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the art market in Greece and Cyprus. Our members include accredited art experts, appraisers, and historians who provide trusted services to art collectors, investors, galleries, and auction houses. The Association works to ensure that the art market remains transparent, authentic and informed for all stakeholders.
For further information or inquiries regarding art authentication services, please contact:
Global Art Market Trends and the Rising Appeal of Greek Art Among Private Collectors.
Athens, 23/12/2024 - The global art market has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by shifting collector preferences, economic fluctuations, and evolving digital engagement. The rise of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) from emerging markets, the increasing role of technology in art sales, and a renewed interest in historically significant yet undervalued artistic traditions have reshaped investment trends. As collectors seek to diversify their portfolios, many have turned their attention to regions with rich artistic heritages that remain underappreciated in the broader market. Among these, Greek art is experiencing a quiet but powerful renaissance in the international arena.
The post-pandemic art world has seen an expansion of digital auctions and private sales, with major auction houses such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Phillips reporting record-breaking online transactions. Meanwhile, contemporary art continues to dominate, with blue-chip names maintaining strong demand, but an increasing number of collectors are exploring niche markets with strong historical narratives. The art market has also been buoyed by the proliferation of art fairs in Asia and the Middle East, as well as private museums established by new billionaires looking to shape their cultural legacies.
In parallel, collectors are becoming more discerning, moving beyond trend-driven acquisitions toward artworks that hold long-term value, cultural significance, and historical depth. This shift has provided an opening for Greek art, which remains a largely untapped but highly rewarding segment of the market.
Greek art has long held a revered position within the European tradition, but until recently, much of its market prominence was confined to Greece itself or a small circle of dedicated connoisseurs. However, international collectors are beginning to recognize the depth, authenticity, and investment potential of Greek works, spanning from the 18th and 19th centuries to modern and contemporary expressions.
The 19th century was a defining period for Greek painting, with artists such as Theodoros Vryzakis and Nikolaos Gyzis capturing both the heroism and nostalgia of Greece’s post-independence era. Traditionally collected within Greece, these works are now finding buyers among European and American collectors who appreciate their connection to the broader Romantic and Orientalist movements. Their prices remain competitive compared to similar Western European works, making them attractive acquisitions.
The 20th century saw the emergence of major Greek modernists such as Yiannis Tsarouchis, Spyros Papaloukas, and Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas, whose works are increasingly sought after by a new generation of international collectors. Tsarouchis’ evocative portrayals of Greek identity resonate with collectors in France, London, and New York, while Ghikas’ unique take on Cubism and the Greek landscape has drawn comparisons to Braque and Picasso.
Among contemporary artists, figures such as Jannis Kounellis and Takis—who have strong international followings—have paved the way for younger artists such as Christiana Soulou and Alexandros Georgiou to gain recognition abroad. Private collectors, particularly those in London, Paris, and Dubai, are showing interest in Greek contemporary art, not only for its aesthetic value but also for its cultural and philosophical depth.
The international market for Greek art is at a turning point. While historically overshadowed by Western European schools, the demand for Greek works is rising among discerning private collectors who appreciate their artistic, historical, and investment value. As the art world continues to diversify, Greek art is poised to claim its rightful place on the global stage, making it an essential area of focus for collectors looking to invest in cultural heritage with lasting significance.
Achilleas Tsantilis
Art Expert, Greek Court of Justice
President, Hellenic Association of Art Experts
Tsantilis Art | Est. 1925
Gallery & Official Art Experts of the Greek State
📍 5 Sekeri St., Kolonaki, Athens, Greece
📞 +30 210 360 5337
✉ [email protected]
🌐 www.artmodern.gr
Pol Georghiou: The Master of Cypriot Art and the Rising Challenge of Forgeries.
Athens, 24/10/2024
The Life and Legacy of Pol Georghiou
Pol Georghiou (1901–1972) is celebrated as one of Cyprus' most influential and valuable artists. Born in Famagusta, he studied law in London but ultimately pursued an art career, becoming a self-taught painter with a distinct and evocative style. Elongated figures, Byzantine-inspired compositions, and a deep-rooted connection to Cypriot life and culture characterize his work.
Upon returning to Cyprus in 1933, Georghiou initially engaged in his family's business before fully dedicating himself to painting at 40. His work was internationally recognized, with exhibitions in prestigious venues such as the Lefevre Gallery in London, Bernheim-Jeune in Paris, and the National Museum Bezalel in Jerusalem. His paintings, which depicted Cypriot landscapes, daily life, and historical events, have since become some of the most sought-after pieces in the Cypriot art market.
Georghiou’s Influence on the Cypriot Art Market
Pol Georghiou is arguably the most expensive and highly regarded Cypriot artist. His paintings consistently fetch record-breaking prices at auctions. One of his works, "Quartier Reserve" (1953), sold for €100,000 at a Cypriot auction in 2023, doubling its previous sale price. Another, "Phantom Church," was sold for €40,355 at a Cypriot Auction House in 2014. These sales underscore the strong demand and appreciation for his work in both local and international markets.
His artistic legacy has solidified him as a cornerstone of Cypriot cultural heritage, and his paintings continue to be featured in prominent collections such as the A.G. Leventis Gallery. However, with great market value comes a significant challenge—counterfeiting.
The Growing Issue of Forgeries in the Cypriot Art Market
As an art expert, I was invited by the Cypriot authorities to conduct forensic examinations on disputed works attributed to Pol Georghiou. Through these investigations, I encountered at least six to seven counterfeit works that had been acquired by unsuspecting buyers. In every case, the owners believed their purchases to be original, having acquired them either directly from private collections or indirectly from auction houses and galleries.
A sample study of ten disputed works revealed a startling pattern:
This distribution suggests that while the formal market is not immune to the issue, the private resale market presents a greater risk for unsuspecting buyers.
In some cases, sellers may have knowingly placed forgeries on the market. However, in other instances, the sellers had inherited the paintings from family members or acquired them without realizing their lack of authenticity.
Techniques Used in Counterfeiting Georghiou’s Works
The challenge with detecting Georghiou's forgeries lies in the fact that his works are not particularly difficult to imitate. Many counterfeits have been executed on mediums similar to those the artist used, with artificial aging techniques applied to give them a sense of authenticity. Methods such as painting over old materials, heating canvases to create cracks, and applying dirt to simulate age have all been observed in fraudulent pieces.
A more sophisticated form of forgery has also emerged: works created by individuals who were either unofficial students of Georghiou or artists familiar with his style. Some of these paintings were executed during the same period as Georghiou’s later works, making authentication even more complex. This raises an intriguing question: Were these artists mere imitators, or were they individuals who had direct access to the artist’s techniques and materials?
Legal and Financial Repercussions
Thanks to my forensic expertise and the diligent efforts of Cypriot authorities, several buyers who had unknowingly purchased forgeries were able to reclaim their money. In a few cases, the issue was escalated to Cypriot courts, reinforcing the importance of due diligence when acquiring high-value artworks.
Conclusion: Safeguarding Georghiou’s Legacy
Pol Georghiou’s legacy as Cyprus' most celebrated artist is both a source of national pride and a target for counterfeiters. His high market value has made his works particularly vulnerable to forgery, posing challenges for collectors and art professionals alike. While the art market remains a space for cultural appreciation and investment, buyers need to exercise caution, seek expert verification, and remain vigilant against fraudulent practices.
As the demand for Georghiou’s paintings continues to grow, so too does the need for meticulous authentication methods to preserve the integrity of his work and ensure that his artistic legacy remains untarnished.
Achilleas Tsantilis
Art Expert, Greek Court of Justice
President, Hellenic Association of Art Experts
Tsantilis Art | Est. 1925
Gallery & Official Art Experts of the Greek State
📍 5 Sekeri St., Kolonaki, Athens, Greece
📞 +30 210 360 5337
✉️ [email protected]
🌐 www.artmodern.gr
Counterfeit Artworks: A Threat to Greek Cultural Heritage and the Global Art Market.
Athens, 15/10/2024
Counterfeit Artworks: A Threat to Greek Cultural Heritage and the Global Art Market
Counterfeit artworks have become a widespread issue, severely impacting both the art market and cultural heritage in Greece, Cyprus, and internationally. Increasingly, forgeries are infiltrating galleries, auctions, and private collections, creating significant risks for buyers and collectors.
Counterfeiters employ a variety of sophisticated techniques to deceive buyers:
Such methods have enabled forgeries of works by prominent artists such as Fassianos, Gyzis, Volanakis, Mytaras, Papaloukas, Maleas, and Spyros Vassiliou to enter both Greek and international markets.
According to Mr. Tsantilis, "Cyprus is often a starting point for the trafficking of counterfeit works of art, which are then channeled to Thessaloniki and from there to Athens. The lack of sufficient experts in these areas facilitates each rings' activities."
One of the main challenges lies with auction houses, which disclaim responsibility for authenticity in their terms of participation. This shifts the burden of verification onto buyers. These houses often exhibit artworks for only 10 days before auctions, providing limited time for proper authentication. In many cases, the certificates and stamps on these artworks are also forged.
Legal action for defrauded buyers is often lengthy, complex, and expensive. Prevention is key:
The international art market must prioritize expertise and due diligence when handling Greek artworks. Auction houses, galleries, and collectors must consult Greek art experts to ensure authenticity and preserve cultural heritage. Failure to address this growing issue threatens not only the art market but also the legacy of Greece's artistic tradition.
Achilleas Tsantilis
Art Expert, Greek Court of Justice
President, Hellenic Association of Art Experts
Tsantilis Art | Est. 1925
Gallery & Official Art Experts of the Greek State
📍 5 Sekeri St., Kolonaki, Athens, Greece
📞 +30 210 360 5337
✉ [email protected]
🌐 www.artmodern.gr
