Artists fake it up at London exhibition
Posted: Saturday, February 13, 2010 9:42 AM

By NBC News' Emily Wither

LONDON – At first glance, it looks like any typical art collection on display at London's famous Victoria and Albert Museum.

But what makes this exhibition unique is that all the featured artworks are fakes and most of the artists on display have served time in jail.

Curated by the Metropolitan Police, the exhibit showcases everything from forged works to the tools used to create them. The police hope the exhibit will raise awareness about art crimes and educate professionals, collectors and enthusiasts alike on what to keep an eye out for. 
 
Detective Sgt. Vernon Rapley, from Scotland Yard's art and antiques unit, gave me a tour around the exhibition.

He explained that the issue of art forgery isn't just a topic for historic consideration or only for the rich and famous – but something that potential art buyer should be watchful for.

“There is a clear shift from the very high-value items, the sort of Hollywood perception of art forgery that it's always Rembrandts and Van Goghs that are being forged,â€