16th-century painting returned to its home in Belluno

A significant artwork lost for years makes its way back to its rightful owner after a lengthy struggle.

Painting lost for decades returns home to Italy

A painting known as Madonna and Child, created by the Italian artist Antonio Solario, will be returned to the Civic Museum of Belluno after being stolen from there 50 years ago. The painting was in the possession of Barbara de Dozsa who maintained that she purchased it in good faith. Despite being on the stolen art lists of various international police forces, she only recently agreed to return it. After multiple discussions led by art lawyer Christopher Marinello, who worked pro bono to convince her to comply, De Dozsa finally decided to hand over the artwork without conditions. The painting had been missing since 1973, only resurfacing in 2017 when De Dozsa attempted to auction it. Marinello remarked on her eventual decision, highlighting the rarity of such cooperation in cases of stolen art.

This incident underscores the complexities surrounding the ownership of stolen art and the emotional weight of cultural heritage. While laws like the UK Limitations Act may offer a legal loophole for possession, moral obligations often weigh heavier, as seen in De Dozsa's eventual choice to return the Solario painting. The case shines a light on the persistent efforts of art recovery specialists who navigate legal and ethical waters to restore lost cultural treasures. As Marinello indicated, cooperation in such matters is often rare, and De Dozsa's action could inspire future discussions about the rights and responsibilities of artwork holders.

Highlights

The painting's return is a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage.