Suspicions over missing Pierneef painting
Art firm Strauss & Co has confirmed a painting by South African renown landscape artist JH Pierneef is in their possession.
This comes amid reports of a criminal investigation that allegedly places African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Ace Magashule at the centre of the theft of the painting.
Daily Maverick reported on Monday that the alleged theft occurred during the time that the former Free State premier was vacating his office to assume his new role at Luthuli House.
Dr Alastair Meredith, an art expert from Strauss & Co, says it is unusual for a valuable painting of Pierneef to come to their offices without any attachment of origins.
Meredith says this raised suspicion and the firmed worked with the University of Pretoria and Pierneef experts to identify the picture and trace the ownership.
"We went through all the available archives and all the assets registers. And all of us still couldn't find exactly where it comes from," says Meredith.
The painting was advertised in the media in hopes to pin down its origins.
It is reportedly worth in the region of R6 million.
"Someone came forward to said they recognise the picture. There is, of course, an ownership dispute now. The painting is in safekeeping, and of course, it will never go on a sale."
The matter has been handed over to the Hawks for investigation.
Daily Maverick reported on Monday that the alleged theft occurred during the time that the former Free State premier was vacating his office to assume his new role at Luthuli House.
Dr Alastair Meredith, an art expert from Strauss & Co, says it is unusual for a valuable painting of Pierneef to come to their offices without any attachment of origins.
Meredith says this raised suspicion and the firmed worked with the University of Pretoria and Pierneef experts to identify the picture and trace the ownership.
"We went through all the available archives and all the assets registers. And all of us still couldn't find exactly where it comes from," says Meredith.
The painting was advertised in the media in hopes to pin down its origins.
It is reportedly worth in the region of R6 million.
"Someone came forward to said they recognise the picture. There is, of course, an ownership dispute now. The painting is in safekeeping, and of course, it will never go on a sale."
The matter has been handed over to the Hawks for investigation.
Speaking to Jacaranda FM News earlier, the investigation unit said they are unaware of the case and will respond to inquiries as soon as they have more information on the matter.
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