Table of Contents
Distinguishing Real Art From Fakes in Animal Crossing
Determining whether artwork purchased from Jolly Redd is real or fake is an essential part of the Animal Crossing gameplay experience. One painting that often confuses players is the Wild Painting Left Half. In this super in-depth guide, I’ll explore how to identify real Wild Paintings and bust the myths around this piece.
Table of Contents
- Background on the Wild Painting
- Real vs Fake Differences
- Additional Factors to Consider
- Common Misconceptions
- Analyzing Other Artworks
- Tips From the Experts
- Fakes Aren’t Always Bad!
- Final Thoughts
Background on the Wild Painting
The Wild Painting Left Half in Animal Crossing is based on a real artwork created in the 17th century called “Folding Screen of Fūjin and Raijin” by Japanese artist Tawaraya Sōtatsu. It depicts the Gods of Wind (Fūjin) and Thunder (Raijin) divided across two folding screens.
Redd’s version takes creative liberties by separating the figures and only including Fūjin/Raijin from the left side. Knowing the origins of this piece provides valuable context for spotting fakes.
Real vs Fake Differences
The key telltale difference between real and fake Wild Painting Left Halves is the color of Raijin:
- Real Painting: Raijin is colored white
- Fake Painting: Raijin is colored green
Additional subtle clues include:
- Real uses finer details and shading on clothing
- Fake features a sickly lighter green tint overall
- Frame wood grain on real looks more natural vs fake
It’s a simple difference, but one that tricks many players at first glance.
Additional Factors to Consider
While color is the major indicator, don’t rely on it alone. Cross-referencing artworks and considering:
- Brushwork quality
- Proportional accuracy
- Shadow/highlight placement
- Texture/wear patterns
- Overall color balance
Lends greater confidence in determination. Real pieces adhere closely to the source artwork’s style.
Remember too that lighting, especially indoors, can affect how colors appear on screen. Check multiple angles if unsure.
Common Misconceptions
Some common myths I’ve noticed around distinguishing this painting:
MYTH: Real art is extremely rare.
FACT: Fakes actually outnumber real works in Redd’s inventory.
MYTH: You can’t sell fake art.
FACT: All paintings, real or fake, can be sold for various prices.
MYTH: Text labels identify real art.
FACT: Both real and fake labels say the artist and title correctly.
MYTH: Island location matters.
FACT: Redd trades all art equally wherever he docks.
Stick to visual analysis alone versus unfounded rumors to guarantee an accurate ID.
Analyzing Other Artworks
To build confidence, study additional artworks Redd offers by comparing Real vs Fake:
- Serene Painting
- Jolly Painting
- Scary Painting
- Warrior Statue
- Beautiful Statue
- Informative Statue
Each has its own defining fake characteristics. Looking at multiple pieces trains your “art expert” eye for subtle deceptions. Over time, spotting fakes gets much easier.
Tips From the Experts
For foolproof identifications, here are top tips from the best fake-spotters in the community:
- Take multiple clear photos for later reference
- Inspect under various light sources if needed
- Trace key brush strokes/elements in photos
- Cross-check online real artwork images
- Patiently compare details side-by-side
- Don’t feel rushed – study pieces thoroughly
- Consult second opinions if still unsure
Using these expert techniques eliminates any doubts about a piece’s authenticity.
Fakes Aren’t Always Bad!
While we strive to only buy and donate real masterworks, don’t feel fakes have no value. Redd always buys back anything he previously sold you.
Some additional uses for fake art include:
- Furniture customization pack-ins
- Decoration for less formal island areas
- Trade bait for completing other collections
- Fun mini-game of trying to re-sell to unsuspecting visitors!
So if you get duped, don’t feel too bad – fakes still have their place in the game.
Final Thoughts
Being able to confidently distinguish real art from forgeries adds another layer of fun complexity to collecting treasures in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. With practice, your “art expertise” will grow tremendously.
Just stick to analyzing each piece’s authentic visual attributes versus myths and take advice from the top forgers – I mean experts! Soon you’ll be an authority on spotting even the sneakiest of fakes.
Most importantly, have fun with Jolly Redd’s traveling art exhbitions. Whether real or reproduction, his pieces bring joy to our islands. Now get examining – there’s authentic beauty waiting to be uncovered!
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