Various goods brought into America have been taxed over the years, but

Various goods brought into America have been taxed over the years, but the art tariff of 1883 forced policy-makers to examine the status of art in society and the idea of art as a commodity. The tariff, which was vehemently opposed by both European and American artists, increased levies on all artworks imported to America, which, for all practical purposes, lumped them into the category of luxury items. Opposition to the tariff rested largely on the idea that a work of art could not be classified as a luxury item and thus should not be subject to tax. Instead, opponents considered art an instrument of culture and an essential element of public education.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the justification for the art tariff?


(A) Art imports were taxed to help pay for the Civil War.

(B) Most art collectors donated their works to museums.

(C) Most artworks imported to America were purchased by private collectors.

(D) The status of art as a material object distinguishes it from music.

(E) Works by contemporary artists were excluded from the tax.