TED-Ed: The art forger who tricked the Nazis

Han Van Meegeren, a 20th-century art forger, created fake Vermeer paintings to deceive the art world. His forgeries were so convincing that they were sold for millions and even fooled Nazi officials. After the war, Van Meegeren was tried for treason but proved his innocence by demonstrating his forgery techniques. He was sentenced for fraud but became a folk hero for outsmarting the Nazis. His legacy endures as his works gained value and were later forged by his son.

What was Han Van Meegeren's primary motivation for creating art forgeries?

• To prove his artistic talent

• To mock the art world

• To gain financial wealth

• To support his family

Which famous painter's style did Van Meegeren choose to imitate in his forgeries?

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Johannes Vermeer

• Michelangelo

• Rembrandt

How did Van Meegeren manage to sell a fake Vermeer to Hermann Goering?

• By bribing art dealers

• By convincing Goering of its authenticity

• By using a fake identity

• By auctioning it publicly

What was Van Meegeren's defense during his trial for treason?

• He demonstrated how he forged the painting

• He denied any involvement with the Nazis

• He claimed the painting was a genuine Vermeer

• He argued he was forced by the Nazis

What was the public's perception of Van Meegeren after his trial?

• A folk hero who tricked the Nazis

• A criminal mastermind

• A misunderstood artist

• A traitor to his country