A Dark Deal in Russia

Once upon a time, during the early throes of Russia's post-Soviet capitalist experiment, when the ascendant oligarchs feasted on the spoils of the old regime, Vladimir Vinogradov sat atop one of Russia's fattest banks and boasted of a burgeoning art collection—the prized jewel of which was a painting by the genius of the Suprematist movement, Kazimir Malevich.

What a difference a devaluation makes. In Russia's financial crisis of 1998, Vinogradov's Inkombank went under and he plummeted from his position of wealth and power. But the fallout from his crash, Russian art experts warn, may soon get worse....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!