Art Market by Emily Johnson

Art Market explores the fascinating intersection of art and finance, demystifying the often-opaque world where aesthetics meet economics. It dissects the art market into three key areas: the primary market involving galleries and initial sales, the secondary market dominated by auction houses, and the financial strategies employed by collectors and investors. The book uniquely blends art historical analysis with modern financial theory, providing insights into how masterpieces transform from mere commodities into coveted investments.

For example, the book examines how subjective factors like taste and critical acclaim interact with objective measures like sales data and economic indicators to determine an artwork's value. The book traces the evolution of art collecting from aristocratic patronage to contemporary investment portfolios, highlighting the roles of auction houses, art critics, and globalization in shaping the current market. It reveals how the art market, despite its subjective perception, is fundamentally governed by principles of supply and demand, information asymmetry, and behavioral economics.

By analyzing these underlying mechanisms, the book equips readers with the knowledge to navigate the art market successfully. It begins by introducing key players and infrastructures, progresses to valuation processes, and concludes with trends, innovations, and an assessment of the art market's future, making it valuable for collectors, investors, and anyone interested in art finance.