🎨 AI Uncovers Fake Art on eBay
Dr. Carina Popovici, an expert in authenticating artwork, has identified up to 40 fake paintings on eBay using advanced AI technology. Among these, a "Monet" titled "Forest With a Stream" was listed for $599K, and a "Renoir" described as a study of Claude Renoir was priced at $165K. Popovici found these paintings had a 95% probability of being fake, highlighting a major issue on the online marketplace.
🔍 eBay's Counterfeit Problem
Despite eBay's policy against counterfeit items, Popovici's findings suggest a significant problem. "Everything we analyzed turns out to be not real art," she said. eBay removed the listing for the Renoir after being contacted by the Guardian, but the Monet remains. Popovici has reached out to eBay multiple times since December 2023, urging them to address the issue seriously, but has yet to receive a response.
📊 AI in Art Authentication
Popovici leads Art Recognition, a Swiss company collaborating with Liverpool University and Tilburg University. Their AI technology uses neural networks to analyze details like brushstrokes and color palettes. It has examined over 500 works, including a Rubens at the National Gallery. This technology has revolutionized the ability to spot fakes online, allowing experts to assess images downloaded from the internet in minutes.
🛡️ eBay's Response
eBay stated they use AI and trained investigators to block counterfeit items. In 2022, they blocked 88M suspected counterfeits and removed 1.3M items after review. "The sale of counterfeit items is strictly prohibited," eBay told the Guardian. Despite this, Popovici's findings reveal a persistent issue. "People should be warned," she said, emphasizing the need for vigilance and better controls on online marketplaces.
What should online platforms do to prevent selling fake art?
