Art Heist: Salvador Dalí’s Rare ‘Book of the Apocalypse’ Stolen in France
A rare artwork designed by Spanish surrealist painter Salvador Dalí has been stolen from a contemporary art centre in the French town of Issoire, authorities said Monday.
The stolen work, known as the “Book of the Apocalypse,” features a distinctive bronze cover and was described by the Clermont-Ferrand prosecutor’s office as a “highly valuable” piece.
The artwork was taken from the contemporary art centre in Issoire, located in France’s Puy-de-Dôme department. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the theft as authorities work to determine how the piece was removed from the museum and identify those responsible.
Dalí, one of the most influential figures of the surrealist movement, was known for his distinctive and often dreamlike imagery. His work has become highly sought after by collectors and museums around the world, making works associated with the artist particularly valuable.
The “Book of the Apocalypse” is among the works connected to Dalí’s artistic interpretation of religious and biblical themes. Its bronze cover adds to its distinctive character and makes the stolen object readily identifiable.
The theft adds to a long history of high-profile art crimes involving valuable works held in museums and galleries. Stolen artworks can be particularly difficult to recover when they are moved across borders or hidden from the legitimate art market.
French investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the theft, including security arrangements at the art centre and whether the stolen work may have been targeted specifically because of its value and connection to Dalí.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the circumstances of the theft or whether any suspects have been identified. The investigation remains ongoing.
