Watch Merchants and Masterpieces

Merchants and Masterpieces is a fascinating documentary film from 1989 that explores the world of art collection and acquisition. The film revolves around a group of wealthy art collectors from around the world who gather in New York City to attend an auction of rare and valuable paintings. Leading the group is Philippe De Montebello, a renowned art historian and the director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art at the time the film was made.

The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the world of art collecting and the lengths to which collectors will go to acquire rare paintings. We see the collectors bidding for famous works by artists such as van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir, and we witness the elation and disappointment experienced by the collectors when they succeed or fail to acquire the works they desire.

The film is not just about the auction, however. It also provides a glimpse of the private collections of some of the world's most wealthy individuals. We see De Montebello visiting the homes of these collectors and admiring their stunning collections of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. The film also includes interviews with some of the collectors, who discuss their passion for art and the joy they derive from collecting.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of the deep connection that many collectors feel with the art they acquire. They speak of the works as though they are part of the family, and we see the collectors get emotional when discussing the pieces they love most. There is a sense of awe and reverence for the paintings that is infectious and makes the viewer appreciate the value of these works of art beyond their monetary worth.

The film also explores the complex relationship between art and money. Several of the collectors interviewed admit to buying art as an investment, while others argue that true art lovers buy art for its beauty, regardless of its value. There is also a discussion of the impact of the art market on the art world, and the film touches on topics such as the authentication of works, the importance of provenance, and the role of art dealers.

One of the highlights of the film is the footage of the auction itself. We see the excitement in the bidding room as collectors compete for some of the world's most sought-after works of art. The tension is palpable as the auctioneer calls out the bids, and the audience gasps when a painting fetches a record-breaking price. The film captures the drama and excitement of the auction in a way that few other documentaries have achieved.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of the importance of art in our lives. The collectors speak of the way art enriches their lives and brings beauty and joy into the world. De Montebello himself expresses the belief that art is essential to our humanity and that it has the power to transcend time and place, connecting us to the past and inspiring us for the future.

In conclusion, Merchants and Masterpieces is a must-see film for anyone interested in art, collecting or the world of auctions. The film provides an engaging and informative look at the world of art collecting and the passion that drives collectors to acquire some of the world's most valuable and beautiful works of art. The sense of awe and reverence for these works is infectious, and the film captures the excitement of the auction room in a way that is both thrilling and educational. Overall, Merchants and Masterpieces is a classic documentary that stands the test of time as a powerful tribute to the importance of art in our lives.

Merchants and Masterpieces is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes.