Theft of a 210-kilogramme masterpiece signed by Dalí in Auvergne
The "Book of Apocalypse", an exceptional work of 210 kilograms with a bronze cover signed by Salvador Dalí, has disappeared from an arts centre in Puy-de-Dôme. Estimated at one million euros, this monument signed by 14 renowned artists remains missing.
Masterpiece stolen from an Auvergne arts centre
A monumental work of art disappeared during the night of 4 October in Issoire, in Puy-de-Dôme. According to France Info, the "Book of Apocalypse" by Joseph Forêt, weighing 210 kilogrammes, was stolen from a private contemporary arts centre. Created in 1961, this unique book remains one of the most imposing creations ever produced, both artistically and physically.
The work is distinguished by its bronze cover, created by Salvador Dalí himself. He had added precious stones, gold forks and a Christ painted on a gold plate, according to the description provided by Christian Karoutzos, the book's current owner. Beyond this prestigious cover, the project had involved 14 renowned international artists and writers, among them Jean Cocteau and Bernard Buffet, who signed the 150 parchments accompanying the bronze volume.
At its creation in 1961, the book was considered one of the most expensive of its time, valued at 100 million francs of that era. Specialists value it today at approximately one million euros. Jean-Christophe Castelain, editor-in-chief of the Journal Des Arts, highlights the enigma that this theft represents: "It has significant artistic value in itself, much more than the individual value of each of the objects that might compose it. What thief could be interested in an object that weighs 210 kilogrammes? I leave the question open."
The circumstances of the theft remain mysterious. The considerable weight of the work raises the logistical question of its removal and transport. Gendarmes from Puy-de-Dôme are currently analysing the establishment's surveillance footage to progress in the investigation. Investigators are examining several hypotheses: that of a private collector acting knowingly, or that of art traffickers who commissioned the theft. The identity of the person or persons who commissioned it remains unknown at this stage.
This art theft affair sheds light on the vulnerability of certain private collections, even in secured establishments. The "Book of Apocalypse" remains missing and the search continues.
Source: France Info