People value (perceived) scarcity. They are not willing to pay for a reprint of painting (that might have better quality compared to the original), but they are willing to bid on the original.
Does it make sense? No, but humans are emotional animals that seek for differentiation.
Among my friends I've been surprised to find out how many believe that diamonds are genuinely scarce and that mined diamond engagement rings qualify as an investment asset.
Does it make sense? No, but humans are emotional animals that seek for differentiation.