One-line summary:

An Object of Beauty is a captivating novel that delves into the glamorous and cutthroat world of the New York art scene, following the rise and fall of Lacey Yeager, a young and ambitious art dealer.

The Allure of the Art World

An Object of Beauty takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the captivating world of art, exploring the glamour, intrigue, and cutthroat nature of the New York art scene. The story revolves around Lacey Yeager, a young and ambitious art dealer who stops at nothing to climb the ladder of success.

Lacey’s journey begins in the late 1990s, where she starts as a lowly assistant at Sotheby’s auction house. Through her wit, charm, and determination, she quickly rises through the ranks, catching the attention of influential players in the art world. As Lacey navigates the intricacies of the industry, readers are introduced to a cast of fascinating characters, including artists, collectors, critics, and fellow dealers.

The Price of Success

As Lacey’s star continues to rise, she becomes entangled in a web of ambition, greed, and moral ambiguity. She forms relationships with influential figures like the wealthy collector Daniel Chesterfield and the charismatic artist, Patrice Claire. However, her pursuit of success comes at a cost, as she manipulates and betrays those around her to further her own career.

Lacey’s journey is not without its setbacks and challenges. She experiences the highs of selling valuable artworks for exorbitant prices, attending glamorous parties, and being featured in prestigious art publications. However, she also faces the consequences of her actions, including losing friendships, damaging her reputation, and facing legal troubles.

The Art of Deception

An Object of Beauty explores the theme of deception in the art world. As Lacey becomes more deeply involved in the industry, she learns that appearances can be deceiving, and the value of art is often subjective and manipulated. The novel raises questions about the authenticity of artwork, the influence of money and power, and the blurred lines between art and commerce.

Throughout the book, the author, Steve Martin, provides vivid descriptions of famous artworks and their historical significance, immersing readers in the beauty and complexity of the art world. Martin’s own passion for art shines through, as he seamlessly weaves real-life artists and events into the fictional narrative.

• Success in the art world often comes at a moral cost.
• The value of art is subjective and can be manipulated.
• Appearances can be deceiving, and the art world is not always what it seems.

“Art is the most intense mode of individualism that the world has known.” – Oscar Wilde

An Object of Beauty is a captivating exploration of the New York art scene, filled with intrigue, ambition, and moral dilemmas. Through Lacey Yeager’s rise and fall, readers are given a glimpse into the glamorous yet cutthroat world of art dealing. Steve Martin’s passion for art shines through in his vivid descriptions and seamless integration of real-life artists and events. Ultimately, the novel raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of success, the value of art, and the lengths people will go to achieve their ambitions.