One of the biggest colleges of Oxford University was burgled over the weekend, losing valuable works of art following a late Saturday night break-in.
According to Christ Church, its Picture Gallery was broken into at around 11pm on March 14. The gallery houses what the college describes as an “important collection” of Old Master paintings and drawings.
Thames Valley Police, which is now appealing for witnesses, identified the following paintings as those snatched up by the thieves:
“The paintings which have been stolen are very high-value pieces dating back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries,” noted investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Jon Capps in a release without disclosing valuations.
“The artwork has not yet been recovered but a thorough investigation is underway to find it and bring those responsible to justice.”
Art historian Bendor Grosvenor, in a report by The Times, estimated the paintings’ collective open market value at roughly £10 million. He also pointed to the insurance implication of the burglary.
“Generally, the idea that these things are stolen because somebody wants to hang a Van Dyck on the wall of their basement and laugh at it like Dr Evil is not true,” the publication quoted Grosvenor as explaining.
“In the majority of cases it’s like a kidnap, as the insurance companies have demonstrated time and time again that they do pay out ransoms, although they call it a reward for information.”
It’s unclear which provider insures Christ Church’s gallery.
Meanwhile the college, thanking the authorities, said in a statement: “We are extremely grateful for the quick and thorough response by the police. We will continue to provide whatever support we can as they continue their investigation and work to help us recover these important cultural artefacts.
“The Picture Gallery will remain closed until further notice.”
