ROME — In a daring theft, burglars have absconded with three priceless paintings by renowned artists Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse from a museum near Parma, Italy. Authorities revealed this incident on Monday, noting the artworks’ combined value in the millions of euros.
The burglary occurred between the night hours of March 22 and 23, with intruders reportedly breaking through the museum’s main entrance, according to police reports.
The masterpieces taken in this heist include “Fish” by Auguste Renoir, “Still Life with Cherries” by Paul Cézanne, and “Odalisque on the Terrace” by Henri Matisse.
The Magnani Rocca Foundation, a private institution situated approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Parma, hosted these artworks. The foundation is nestled in the picturesque Italian countryside.
Reports from local media suggest that the thieves executed the heist in under three minutes, making their escape through the museum’s gardens.
Since its establishment in 1977, the foundation has showcased the collection of renowned art historian Luigi Magnani, which also boasts works by artists such as Dürer, Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya, and Monet.
The museum believes a structured and organized gang was responsible for the theft, which was interrupted by the alarm, local media reported.
The museum didn’t post any statement about the theft on its website and wasn’t reachable for a comment, because it’s closed on Monday.
The crime comes after a series of high-profile heists at major European museums, including a major incident in October where thieves stole jewels and other items worth 88 million euros ($101 million) from the Louvre in Paris.
Italian art expert Claudio Strinati said that the three stolen paintings are minor works from the three masters.
“Renoir’s painting, for example, is very beautiful, but, within the context of the foundation as a whole, it isn’t among the most important works,” he told The Associated Press.
Strinati also said the heist could be followed by a ransom request.
“Art thefts can indeed be carried out for the purpose of extortion,” he said.
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