An art forger has been sentenced to 52 months in prison for deceiving art collectors out of more than $200,000 by selling replica woodcuts as historic masterpieces. Earl Marshawn Washington, 61, was sentenced for conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, according to a statement released by the Department of Justice.
Conspiracy Scheme
The scheme, which spanned from 2013 to 2016, involved Washington conspiring with romantic partners to swindle unsuspecting art buyers in both France and the US. Prosecutors outlined how Washington utilized his skills as a wood engraver to create counterfeit woodblocks that appeared authentic.
Deceptive Advertising
Working alongside his then-wife Zsanett Nagy, Washington advertised the fake woodcuts as originating from the 15th to early 20th centuries. Buyers were lured in with promises of rare and historic artworks, only to discover that they had been duped.
Financial Losses and Restitution
Collectors transferred significant sums of money, amounting to nearly $85,000 and $118,810 in separate instances, for woodblocks that turned out to be fake. As a result, Washington was ordered to pay $203,240.90 in restitution to his victims, with Nagy ordered to pay $107,159.25.
Legal Consequences
Nagy, who was sentenced to two years in prison in January 2024, faces the risk of deportation to Hungary. The judgment highlights the serious legal repercussions facing individuals involved in art fraud and forgery.
Concerns Over Art Fraud
Recent years have seen a surge in high-profile cases of art forgeries and fraud, leading to increased concerns among art collectors about the authenticity of their artworks. A wealth report by insurance company Chubb revealed that 87% of affluent North American art collectors surveyed are worried about falling victim to art fraud.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Earl Marshawn Washington underscores the ongoing battle against art fraud and the importance of vigilant oversight within the art market. As collectors remain wary of potential scams, authorities continue to crackdown on individuals engaged in deceptive practices, aiming to safeguard the integrity of the art world.
