A stolen painting from Oxford University has been recovered in Romania. However, two other paintings stolen from Christ Church Picture Gallery in March 2020 are still yet to be found.
Two other paintings stolen from Christ Church Picture Gallery in March 2020 are still missing.
In 2020, Salvator Rosa’s “A Rocky Coast, with Soldiers Studying a Plan” was stolen from Christ Church Picture Gallery. Two additional artworks taken in the same theft, Sir Anthony van Dyck’s “A Soldier on Horseback” and Annibale Carracci’s “A Boy Drinking,” remain unaccounted for. Collectively, these three pieces are estimated to be valued at £10 million.
A man in possession of the Rosa painting contacted the Romanian police after selling the other two stolen artworks within the country. The Van Dyck masterpiece, created around 1616, and Caracci’s piece from 1580, had been on display in the gallery for 252 years before the theft.
The man opted to return the Rosa painting, dating back to the late 1640s, to the authorities and is being treated as a witness rather than being arrested. Thames Valley Police, along with the gallery’s curator, Jacqueline Thalmann, recovered the painting in Bucharest last month.
She stated, “Since 1768, the missing paintings have remained on public display, underscoring the importance of their recovery for widespread enjoyment and scholarly examination.
“These artworks not only constitute a substantial portion of our collection but also hold immense cultural significance for both British and European heritage.”
Ms. Thalmann further remarked, “The return of the first painting is a promising development. It’s reassuring to see it in such good condition despite being absent for four years and having endured transportation across Christ Church Meadow and throughout Europe.”
Detective Chief Inspector James Mather of Thames Valley Police mentioned that they are collaborating with Eurojust and Europol to gather additional intelligence, including forensic analysis, regarding the locations of the other two artworks.
He noted that significant forensic evidence has been obtained from the recovered painting, which now requires thorough analysis. However, he expressed optimism that this analysis could yield valuable leads for the police.
Individuals with any information about the whereabouts of the missing artworks are urged to get in touch with the police.
The painting, which has significant historical and cultural value, was feared lost forever, but thanks to the dedicated efforts of law enforcement and art experts, it has been found and will be returned to its rightful place. This incredible recovery serves as a reminder of the important role that international cooperation and perseverance play in safeguarding our shared cultural heritage. Stay tuned for more updates on this fascinating saga!
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