SEVEN SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR THEFT OF FRANCIS BACON PAINTINGS

Nadia Khomami of The Guardian reports that seven individuals in Spain have been arrested regarding the theft of five paintings by Francis Bacon, worth in total over $27 million.

The works, in addition to other valuables, were taken from their owner’s residence last July. In February, British detectives with expertise in stolen art were e-mailed pictures of the paintings, along with a query as to whether or not the pieces were reported missing. The detectives then researched the photos and determined that they were taken by a rented camera from a photo equipment company. They visited the company and were given the renter’s information. This person, along with a Madrid-based art dealer and his son, were among the suspects taken into custody.

An art specialist who spoke with The Guardian anonymously said, “It is not at all easy to sell a Francis Bacon, large or small, without that getting to the ears of those who pore over such a rarified sector.”