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NY trial over fake Jasper Johns sculpture ends with guilty plea from ex-NY foundry owner

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FILE - In this undated file photo provided by the United States Attorney’s Office, a photo showing the iconic 1960 “Flag” painting by contemporary artist Jasper Johns is shown. A former New York foundry owner has admitted lying about the authenticity of a sculpture of Jasper Johns’ classic 1960 “Flag” painting. Brian Ramnarine pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud Monday, Jan. 27, 2014, in Manhattan federal court. The plea came amid a trial that began last week. (AP Photo/Jasper Johns via the U.S. Attorney’s Office, File)

NEW YORK, N.Y. – A former New York foundry owner has admitted lying about the authenticity of a sculpture of Jasper Johns’ classic 1960 “Flag” painting.

Brian Ramnarine (RAM’-nah-reen) pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud Monday in Manhattan federal court. The plea came amid a trial that began last week.

Ramnarine’s skills with liquid metal made him a favourite of artists in the 1980s.

He agreed not to challenge any sentence of 10 years or less in prison as part of a plea deal.

Ramnarine admitted he falsely told prospective buyers that the works he was offering from Johns and two other artists were legitimate when they were not.

Johns testified last week that the sculptures of “Flag” offered by Ramnarine were fakes.

Sentencing was set for May 30.

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