Meaning: The quote "Buy old masters. They fetch a better price than old mistresses." by William Aitken, a businessman, contains a play on words that juxtaposes the art world with gender dynamics. The quote is a clever and witty observation about the value and marketability of art, as well as a reflection on the historical preference for male artists over female artists.

In the art world, "old masters" typically refers to renowned European painters who worked before the 1800s, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo. These artists are highly esteemed for their technical skill, artistic innovation, and historical significance. Their works are considered valuable pieces of cultural heritage and can command incredibly high prices at auction houses and art galleries.

On the other hand, the term "old mistresses" is a play on the term "old masters," referring to female artists from the same time period. Historically, women artists faced significant barriers to entry in the art world, and their contributions were often overlooked or undervalued. As a result, their works have not received the same level of recognition and financial reward as those of their male counterparts.

Aitken's quote cleverly highlights this disparity by suggesting that investing in "old masters" – the male artists – is more lucrative than investing in "old mistresses" – the female artists. While the quote is delivered with a humorous tone, it also serves as a reminder of the systemic gender inequality that has persisted in the art world and beyond.

The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the enduring gender pay gap and the undervaluing of women's contributions in various fields, including the arts. Aitken's choice of words draws attention to the unequal treatment of male and female artists throughout history, as well as the ongoing efforts to rectify this imbalance.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of elevating the voices and visibility of women artists. Institutions and collectors are actively working to reassess and promote the works of "old mistresses," seeking to give them the recognition and value they deserve. As a result, the art market has seen increased interest in female artists from previous eras, and their works are gaining greater appreciation and value.

Furthermore, the quote can also be seen as a reflection of broader societal attitudes toward gender and the ways in which traditional gender roles and expectations have influenced various aspects of culture and economics. It underscores the need to challenge and dismantle the biases and stereotypes that have shaped historical and contemporary valuation of art and artists based on gender.

In conclusion, William Aitken's quote "Buy old masters. They fetch a better price than old mistresses" offers a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of art, gender, and economics. It serves as a reminder of the historical inequalities within the art world while also highlighting the ongoing efforts to reevaluate and revalue the contributions of women artists. The quote's clever wordplay encapsulates a complex issue and invites contemplation on the evolving dynamics of art market and gender equality.