Chapter 7, Part 2 Summary

The mention of Naudet puts Bongrand into a snit. In contrast to the shabby Malgras, Naudet elevated the position of art dealer to one of high esteem. Naudet is all about appearances in contrast to the ratty-looking Malgras. His personal marketing includes fine clothes, jeweled tie pin, hired carriage, a box at the Opera, a table at Brignon's, and care taken to be seen in all the right places. Naudet is a gambler and speculator with a flair for spotting a good deal but completely indifferent to good painting. His clientele are wealthy young investors who know nothing about art but buy in hopes of an increase in value at a later date. Bongrand improvises a conversation between Fagerolles and Naudet which demonstrates Naudet's ability at business. Bongrand laments that prices for paintings go up and up and are fought over...