Word: Authentic

In his essay Benjamin questions the authenticity of technologically reproduced art: “In even the most perfect reproduction, one thing is lacking: the here and now of the work of art – its unique existence in a particular place” (Benjamin 253). The value of a reproduction is far less than the original because of what Benjamin would describe as “lack of authenticity.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines Authentic as: “Really proceeding from its reputed source or author; of undisputed origin, genuine.” The link between author and copy is not as valuable as the relationship between author and original. Each time an artwork takes a step away from its authentic state, it looses worth.