What You Need to Know
• Milwaukee art gallery owner Bill DeLind recovered a stolen Pablo Picasso etching print last week.
• The print, titled “Torero,” was stolen from DeLind’s shop in 2018 and is valued at approximately $50,000.
• Milwaukee landlord Tim Dertz discovered the print while cleaning out a vacant apartment of an evicted tenant.
Bill DeLind, the owner of DeLind Fine Art Appraisals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, recently recovered a Pablo Picasso etching print, “Torero,” that was stolen from his gallery in 2018. The recovery occurred after Milwaukee landlord Tim Dertz found the print while cleaning out an apartment. Dertz recognized the artwork’s significance after consulting with an antique dealer friend, who confirmed it was the stolen piece. The Milwaukee Police Department is investigating the case, although the statute of limitations for theft is generally six years. The print, which was appraised at $35,000 to $50,000 at the time of the theft, remains with the police while DeLind’s client works with their insurance company regarding the artwork’s return.
Why It Matters
The recovery of the Picasso etching highlights ongoing issues related to art theft and recovery efforts. Art theft remains a significant concern for galleries and collectors, with stolen pieces often taking years to recover. The case also underscores the importance of community vigilance, as Dertz’s discovery led to the return of a valuable artwork. Additionally, the emotional impact of the theft on DeLind’s late business partner, who had sought its recovery annually, illustrates the personal connections involved in art ownership.
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