La estafa en la obra de arte

Resumen

The aim of this thesis is to analyze the Spanish Criminal Law about the scam involving fake art works. Therefore, the object of the research is limited to the basic concept of the crime of fraud and precepts covered in articles 248.1, 249 and 623.4 of the Spanish Criminal Code. This thesis has been structured in three chapters. In the first stage, which is specified in Chapter I, a terminological study is needed to obtain an introductory framework where the topic is established: the art market and the concept of artwork. A second chapter begins with a brief discussion of this issue in comparative law. Then we try to create a solid and coherent explanatory model that can respond to the most important issues that ultimately determine the objective pursued in this investigation. This is carried out by an interpretation of the different typical terms always guided by the consideration of the object of the offense. Hence, although specific references are related to the Spanish legal system, most of the these statements are extensible sustained to other legal systems, necessary assumption that the basic premises of Chapter III are based on. This third step is devoted to the study of legally protected assets. Here we aim to unveil a major technical issue, which is that which refers to the actual determination of interest or value protected by the criminal law, but also looking for a solid hermeneutical criterion determining their legal status in relation to deception and the parties involved. With respect to the parties involved, and their impact on the market, we analyze in depth the auction houses, with some very exemplary cases. This has led us to study border liability phenomena with private law. For its impact on the market, criminalized legal business is also addressed. We analyze the victim of the scam from a victim perspective, noting the special characteristics of this type of buyer. Some thoughts about possible multiple offenses of the crimes of fraud with fake art works are shown. Finally, the legal formula is applied to the issue considered attempting to offer a response which is consistent with the initial theoretical approach and also correct from the point of view criminal policy.