“To my mind the old masters are not art; their value is in their scarcity.”
- February 11, 1847 – October 18, 1931
- European American
- Inventor and businessman
- The “king of inventors” who obtained over 1,000 patents, including the practical application of the incandescent light bulb
Quote
“To my mind the old masters are not art; their value is in their scarcity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Edison challenges the traditional view of art by suggesting that the value of old master paintings lies not in their artistic merit, but in their rarity and historical significance. He implies that the reason these works are so highly valued is not necessarily because they represent the pinnacle of artistic expression, but because they are scarce and have become symbols of cultural heritage. For Edison, art is not something inherently valuable due to age or prestige, but rather something that should be appreciated for its creation, innovation, and relevance in the present. His words reflect a more pragmatic and modern view of art, where the focus is on its functional impact rather than its collectible status.
This idea resonates in today’s world, where art markets often emphasize the financial value of artworks, particularly those by famous artists, rather than the artistic content itself. The inflated value of certain artworks often stems from their scarcity—the fact that they are unique and part of a limited historical context, rather than their intrinsic qualities. However, contemporary artists and the rise of digital art are shifting the focus back toward creativity and innovation rather than the simple scarcity of works.
On a personal level, Edison’s quote encourages us to reconsider what makes something valuable, whether it’s in art, business, or ideas. It reminds us that true value is not always found in rarity or status but in innovation, creativity, and the ability to connect with others. This perspective challenges us to appreciate the present and future potential of art, ideas, or creations rather than only looking to the past for validation. Edison’s words prompt us to find value in the creative process and in new ideas, rather than relying on the historical scarcity of established works.
