The Historical Figures We Have Always Thought Were Real Might Never Have Existed

In 1998, Scottish author William Boyd crafted a fictitious biography about artist Nat Tate, detailing his life and suicide. The book’s launch, hosted by David Bowie, included prominent artists, only to later reveal it all as an elaborate April Fools’ prank.

This audacious hoax blurred the boundaries between fact and fiction, challenging perceptions of authenticity in the art world while showcasing Boyd’s creative ingenuity. The Nat Tate affair remains a celebrated example of literary mischief, immortalizing the enigmatic artist and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.