A GEM, written by the master team of Bill Persky and Sam Denoff, later to write even more classic material for THAT GIRL.
Another episode that brings out that elasticity of Dick Van Dyke, who could literally tie himself in knots. Rob, Laura and Buddy and Sally attend an auction and there it sits -- a painting of a clown. But NOT just any painting. The wacky idea behind this story may have been lifted from Laurel and Hardy, who also attended an auction with similar results.
While there, Rob explains to Laura that slight "gestures" let the auctioneer know you are bidding. When Rob gives a few choice examples, he's ACTUALLY bidding on the painting! Outrageous, and well performed by Dick Van Dyke. The scene is a spot on classic.
In the bitter end, Rob and Laura are stuck with the painting... however, doing some undercover work, Rob happens to peel away part of the paint, which shows there's an entirely different sketch beneath it. Calling master art authenticator Howard Morris. Morris is his eccentric self, giving Rob and Laura a bizarro history about the artist in question. By the way, part of this story is true, due to the fact many artists (some famous) painted over their original work to begin something new, also to save money.
Look for Alan Reed, better known for playing Fred Flintstone, in the role of the auctioneer. You will reconized his famous voice. Many familiar faces also line the auction audience, always fun to spot the actor.
John Rich directed this with his usual flair, later to master ALL IN THE FAMILY.
SEASON 3 EPISODE 2 remastered dvd box set 5 dvds. Released 2016. Thanks METV for running this super oldie.