A BRIEF HISTORY OF ART & ITS MARKETS PART 1: PREHISTORY TO MEDIAEVAL

In this first episode of a two-part lecture series, Dr David Bellingham traces the evolution of the art market from its prehistoric origins to the medieval period. Drawing on archaeological, literary, and technical evidence, the lecture explores how art objects transitioned from ritual and utilitarian functions into exchangeable commodities. Topics include:

• Long-distance trade and stylistic diffusion in ancient cultures


• The emergence of artist signatures and competition in Classical Greece


• Roman collecting, auctions, and the replication of originals


• The role of advisors and secondary markets


• The shift to church patronage and the proto-Renaissance

This episode sets the stage for Part II, which will examine the rise of the modern art market from the Renaissance to the present day.

Keywords: Art Market History, Ancient Trade, Artist Branding, Roman Collecting, Medieval Patronage, MAAB, David Bellingham

music

‘Baby, I Miss The Internet’ (Rama, Rama, Rama) 

by TOT TAYLOR

is used by kind permission of the artist

©Tot Taylor/Songmatic Music (2020)