Norfolk Woman Refuses Return of Stolen 16th-Century Painting

A 16th-century painting, 'Madonna and Child' by Antonio Solario, stolen from a museum in Italy over 50 years ago, has resurfaced in Norfolk, England, where owner Barbara De Dozsa refuses to return it. De Dozsa claims her late husband bought the painting in good faith shortly after its theft in 1973, and despite being listed on police stolen art databases, UK authorities returned it to her in 2020 due to delays in documentation from Italian officials. Art lawyer Christopher Marinello has argued for its return to the Civic Museum of Belluno, stating that the police's return did not convey ownership. De Dozsa cites the Limitation Act of 1980, asserting her legal claim after six years, as her husband's purchase was deemed unconnected to the theft. The case highlights ongoing challenges in the recovery of stolen art across international borders. The painting's value is now estimated between £60,000 and £80,000, raising further questions about its rightful ownership.