1. Mona Lisa
1. Mona Lisa
As one of the most notorious art thefts of the 20th century, Mona Lisa by Leonard Da Vinci was stolen by Vincenzo Preuggia, a worker hired to by the Louvre. Preuggia was hired to install protective glass cases for some of the most famous works in the Louvre, including the “Mona Lisa”. With such access, Preuggia was able to simply hide the artwork under his smock and walked out.
Peruggia claims it was Italian patriotism and his desire to return the artwork to his homeland that lead him to steal Mona Lisa. After 2 years, Peruggia attempted to sell the artwork to an art dealer and the director of Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Peruggia served seven months in jail for the theft.
Information obtained from saatchiart.com
Peruggia claims it was Italian patriotism and his desire to return the artwork to his homeland that lead him to steal Mona Lisa. After 2 years, Peruggia attempted to sell the artwork to an art dealer and the director of Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Peruggia served seven months in jail for the theft.
Information obtained from saatchiart.com