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An expanded Web version of segments seen on CNN Fooling forgers with DNA
Special ink helps animators authenticate their artwork
August 1, 1997
Web posted at: 11:56 a.m. EDT (1556 GMT)From Correspondent David George
LOS ANGELES (CNN) -- Using human DNA to identify crime suspects has become commonplace in the courtroom. The same material -- deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecular basis of heredity -- can also be used to protect against forgery, making it a virtually foolproof way to verify an artist's work.
In the case of animation art, where buyers may spend hundreds or thousands of dollars for an original, single "cel" of a famous cartoon character, major studios use special seals and certificates to vouch for the cel's authenticity.
The artist's autograph is also a pretty good authenticator -- if, of course, it's genuine.
Joe Barbera on the need to protect animation art: 
203K/18 sec. AIFF or WAV sound Cartoon pioneer Joe Barbera recalls the time a genuine-looking Hanna-Barbera cel showed up at a shop in Palm Springs, California. "Bill Hanna's name was on it. And my name was. But it wasn't our signature," Barbera told CNN.
These days, Barbera signs his work with a special pen containing ink infused with his own DNA. It's the most sophisticated part of a chemistry-based security system made by California-based Art Guard Inc.
CNN's David George reports:
2 min. 26 sec. VXtreme video
The company also sells electronic sensors programmed to read the chemical makeup of ink. The more sophisticated the ink's chemistry, the tougher it is to duplicate.
Security consultant Lawrence Lawler considers the Art Guard system "very secure," even without the added DNA.
But if counterfeiters catch up technologically, Art Guard President Charlie Butland says the system is easily changed, making it a "moving target" to keep forgers off balance.
Barbera, who calls animation forgery a "booming business," is impressed. "You really need protection. This is the best way."
Related sites:
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- The Cartoon Factory Animation Art Gallery - featuring original and limited editions from Disney, Warner Bros, Hanna-Barbera, and many other favorites
- Animation Art: Hanna-Barbera - from the American Royal Arts Web site
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