Professor Helps Bust Italian Art Theft Ring
Discovery of Stolen Manuscript
A professor at Lund University in Sweden made a remarkable discovery while examining a rare 16th-century prayer book. He noticed an antique stamp from the Royal Library of Turin, indicating that the manuscript may have been stolen. The professor alerted the Italian embassy in Sweden, triggering an investigation that ultimately led to the bust of a notorious art theft ring.
Modus Orandi: The Missing Manuscript
The stolen manuscript, titled “Modus Orandi Deum Aliaque Pia et Christiana Exercitia Nec Non Deiparae Virginis Maria Litaniae,” had been pilfered from a glass case at the Royal Library of Turin in 2012. The professor’s keen eye led authorities to a student in Bologna who had sold the manuscript online. The student traced its purchase to a local book dealer.
Raid on the Book Dealer’s Warehouse
Authorities raided the book dealer’s warehouse and discovered a treasure trove of precious art and rare books that had been reported stolen from various locations across Italy. The haul included paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts worth millions of euros.
Giovanni Saccani’s Gratitude
Giovanni Saccani, director of the Royal Library, expressed his gratitude to the professor for returning the stolen manuscript, which was valued at €20,000-€30,000. The professor declined any compensation for his role in its recovery.
Turin’s Art Crime Hotspot
Turin has become a hub for art crimes, but Italian police have been relentless in their efforts to combat the problem. In 2017, they apprehended 77 individuals involved in art crimes and seized 3,470 stolen artworks before they could be shipped abroad.
Recent Art Recoveries
In May, police recovered a series of priceless masterpieces from a villa in Turin, thanks to a tip from a collector who was offered counterfeit bills as payment for the stolen paintings.
Unresolved Monza Heist
Despite their successes, police have yet to apprehend the culprits behind a brazen heist in nearby Monza. In April, thieves disguised as buyers from the Albanian consulate stole nearly $30 million worth of art by Rembrandt and Renoir from an art dealer.
Professor’s Role in Art Recovery
The professor’s discovery played a pivotal role in uncovering the Italian art theft ring and recovering stolen artifacts. His vigilance and attention to detail exemplify the importance of public involvement in combating art crime.
Ongoing Efforts to Protect Italy’s Heritage
Italian police and cultural institutions remain committed to safeguarding the nation’s rich artistic heritage. They work tirelessly to investigate art thefts, recover stolen items, and prosecute those responsible for these crimes.
