- April 24, 2024
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The small self-portrait on copper painted in 1630 by Rembrandt was among three paintings stolen at gunpoint from the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm in an armed robbery in December 2000. The total worth of the paintings were estimated at $42 million.
The Rembrandt was recovered in 2005, in Copenhagen, when FBI Art Crime team founder Robert Wittman led a recovery effort by going undercover as an authenticator for an Eastern European mob group. Wittman tells the tale in depth in his book, “Priceless,” and will feature the case in his upcoming speaking event hosted by the Flagler County Art League, Tuesday, April 7, at the Flagler Auditorium.
Throughout the evening in Palm Coast, Wittman will reveal the secrets behind his 20 years of investigating heists of famous pieces of art and antiquities by recounting stories from his New York Times best-seller.
“The most important thing about the event in Palm Coast is that it is put on by FCAL and a fundraiser to do more programs and promote the arts in Flagler County,” Wittman said. “It is my belief that art is what separates us from the beast — it’s so important. And the protection of that artwork is something that we all have a responsibility for. When artwork is stolen or taken out of public view — a Monet is not the same as a Chevy — it’s a piece of property that is indicative of the inner genius, and we need to preserve that for future generations.”
The Flagler County Art League has been promoting the arts throughout the community since its birth in 1978. The organization, which has a membership of more than 350 artists, art lovers and supporters, provides a creative environment for artists to develop, collaborate and showcase their work. The Wittman event is an attempt for the art league to appeal to the masses when it comes to introducing art to the community.
“We have strived to support our local artists and to bring a variety of artistic experiences to our community,” said Ann DeLucia, president of the Flagler County Art League. “And of course, we are very excited to have Robert Wittman, a real life Indiana Jones, coming to Flagler County as a guest speaker — a first event of its kind in this area.”
IF YOU GO
What: Going Undercover: Rescuing the World’s Stolen Treasures with Robert K. Wittman
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 7; with and VIP private reception at 5:30
Where: Flagler Auditorium, 5500 State Road 100, Palm Coast
Tickets: $20 for general admission; $60 including VIP private reception and a signed copy of “Priceless.” Call 437-7547 or 866-353-4537 or visit flaglerauditorium.org.
