A former British baroness is refusing to return a 16th-century painting that was stolen from an Italian museum over 50 years ago. The artwork, titled "Madonna and Child" by Antonio Solario, was taken in 1973 from the Civic Museum in Belluno, Italy. It was acquired by the museum in 1872 before being bought in good faith by Baron de Dozsa.
The painting was displayed in the baron’s home, East Barsham Manor, a Tudor-style property in Norfolk. This manor was once referred to as a "small country palace" by Henry VIII. The current owner, Barbara de Dozsa, who was previously married to the baron, claims she doesn’t have much affection for the painting, stating that it reminds her of her ex-husband.
Despite its questionable provenance, de Dozsa has no intention of giving up the painting. It remains listed in Interpol’s database of stolen art. Lawyer Christopher Marinello, who specializes in recovering stolen artworks, has been trying to facilitate its return to Belluno. He approached de Dozsa, but she has been unyielding, even admitting to him that she never liked the painting.
The painting came to light when de Dozsa attempted to sell it at an auction house in England in 2019. After its theft was uncovered, local police intervened, and the artwork was returned to her in 2020. Authorities in Norfolk stated that they were instructed to return the painting because Italian officials had not provided the necessary documentation to reclaim it.
Marinello expressed frustration over the situation, pointing out that the lack of cooperation from law enforcement has hindered the efforts to recover the painting. He noted that the UK police have classified the matter as civil rather than criminal, stating that de Dozsa did not commit a crime.
While the painting’s monetary value is estimated to be under £100,000, Marinello emphasized its cultural significance to the people of Belluno, as Solario was from that region. De Dozsa has declined to comment further on the issue.
