Picasso painting recovered during drug enforcement raid in Paris suburb
Law enforcement officers obtained an authentic work by the Spanish painter whilst conducting a search of a house in Champigny-sur-Marne in connection with a drugs case.
Picasso painting recovered during drug enforcement raid in Paris suburb
Police officers tasked with combating drug trafficking made an unexpected discovery whilst searching a house located in a municipality in the south-eastern suburbs close to Paris. Rather than simple illicit substances, they discovered a canvas signed by Pablo Picasso, which had been stolen at an earlier date.
The operation took place on Monday in the town of Champigny-sur-Marne. The Créteil prosecutor's office confirmed on Saturday that this find formed part of an investigation into theft and handling stolen goods. Four suspects were brought before the courts on Friday.
According to the newspaper Le Parisien, investigators also seized cannabis resin, branded articles and a certain sum of cash. The work in question reportedly depicts Marie-Thérèse Walter, the muse and companion of the Spanish master during part of the 1920s and 1930s. Its market value is estimated at approximately 12 to 15 million euros.
The prosecutor's services certified the authenticity of the painting without, however, disclosing its exact title. The case has been handed over to the criminal brigade of the department. The four individuals arrested were referred for immediate appearance for offences related to drugs.
Source: YLE Uutiset