A recent investigation revealed that 46 significant artworks, including a notable silkscreen print of former Dutch Queen Beatrix by iconic artist Andy Warhol, were "most likely" disposed of during renovation work at the Maashorst municipality in the Netherlands. The artworks, worth approximately €22,000 in total, went missing last year when they were improperly handled while in storage. Mayor Hans van der Pas issued an apology, acknowledging that the carelessness with the artworks, stored in wheeled bins without adequate procedures, contributed to their disappearance.
Dutch Municipality Loses Warhol Print of Queen Beatrix During Renovations
Dutch Municipality Loses Warhol Print of Queen Beatrix During Renovations
A renovation mishap leads to the potential loss of 46 valuable artworks, including an Andy Warhol silkscreen worth €15,000.
In a statement released by the municipality, officials expressed regret over the incident, stating that the artworks were likely thrown away unintentionally, as there were insufficient guidelines in place for their care. Local media confirmed that the Warhol piece, a silkscreen print from the celebrated artist's series 'Reigning Queens,' was worth around €15,000. This series features portraits of several monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark.
The lost artworks were housed in the basement of the town hall in Uden, which was under renovation as part of a broader restructuring involving neighboring municipalities. The investigation discovered that artworks were not treated with the due diligence they deserved, as improper storage practices were noted, including placing valuable pieces among trash. It has been concluded that the artworks are unlikely to be located.
Interestingly, this incident follows a previous case in November where Warhol prints by Queen Beatrix and Queen Ntombi Twala were actually stolen from an art gallery and left behind by thieves due to insufficient space in their vehicle.
As the situation unfolds, local authorities are being urged to reconsider their protocols for handling culturally significant items to prevent such losses in the future.
The lost artworks were housed in the basement of the town hall in Uden, which was under renovation as part of a broader restructuring involving neighboring municipalities. The investigation discovered that artworks were not treated with the due diligence they deserved, as improper storage practices were noted, including placing valuable pieces among trash. It has been concluded that the artworks are unlikely to be located.
Interestingly, this incident follows a previous case in November where Warhol prints by Queen Beatrix and Queen Ntombi Twala were actually stolen from an art gallery and left behind by thieves due to insufficient space in their vehicle.
As the situation unfolds, local authorities are being urged to reconsider their protocols for handling culturally significant items to prevent such losses in the future.
