It was one of the strangest trials in Dutch history. The defendant in a 1947 case was an art forger who had counterfeited millions of dollars worth of paintings. But he wasn't arguing his innocence— in fact, his life depended on proving that he had committed fraud. Who was this artist, and why was he on trial for his life? Noah Charney investigates the notorious Han van Meegeren. [Directed by Hype CG, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Gabriel Maia].

Noah Charney: The art forger who tricked the Nazis

The art forger who tricked the Nazis

Van Meegeren's art forgery, aimed to dupe critics, earned millions and even deceived Nazis, highlighting art's subjective validation.

Van Meegeren transformed from a criminal forger to a folk hero by convincing the public he had outwitted the Nazis with his art.

A notorious art forger's life hinged on proving he tricked Nazis by fabricating a 'Vermeer', altering history and his fate.