Module manager: Prof Mark Westgarth
Email: m.w.westgarth@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The module provides you with an introduction to some of the main themes in the histories of the art market. The module focuses on key notions, such as the Primary (production) and Secondary (resale/collecting) art markets. The role of key institutions, such as auction houses and galleries, and key agents, such as art dealers, collectors and artists, are also addressed. The module critically reflects on the meanings of some of the dominant tropes associated with those that have traded in art objects, such as the consistent theme of forgery and fakes, as well as the role that the art market plays in the complex nature of the notion of 'value'. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
On this module you will you will study the history and development of the Art Market from the 16th century to present day. You will consider the relationships between the disciplines of museum studies, art history and cultural studies and the role and impact of structures and mechanisms of the art market on these disciplines. You will be introduced to some of the main institutions and agents involved in the historical and contemporary art markets.
On completion of this module, you will be able to:
1. Describe and evaluate art auction catalogues and art auctions
2. Describe, evaluate and analyse the mechanisms of the art market through a focus on the role of art auctions and art dealers
3. Critique the complex relationship between the art and money
4. Describe, evaluate and analyse the art market in particular periods
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Demonstrate the ability to recognise and express knowledge and understanding
6. Prioritise, work efficiently and productively and to manage your time well in order to meet deadlines.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 2 | 0.5 | 1 |
| Seminar | 2 | 1.5 | 3 |
| Seminar | 8 | 2 | 16 |
| Private study hours | 180 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Assessment briefings take place within the module seminars. Verbal formative feedback is given on the auction catalogue, and review assignment and final essay assignment.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Portfolio - Written | 50 |
| Coursework | Written | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
August resits are available for both assessments.
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 14/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team