It is the most spectacular art heist in Austrian history: On May 11, 2003, an alarm system expert stole Benvenuto Cellini’s “Saliera” from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in an action worthy of a movie. The then principal investigator Ernst Geiger (68) reveals which mystery is still unsolved 20 years later.
The rule is clear: Vienna’s highest Kieberer may only be disturbed on Sunday in exceptional cases, namely double murder. When on the morning of May 11, 2003 the latest news fluttered around that an art object had been stolen from the KHM during the night, the officer on duty was faced with a dilemma. However, he does not know much about art theft, so he bravely calls his boss Ernst Geiger’s number.
Disturbed on the free weekend
“My first thought was: is he seriously disturbing me on my well-deserved weekend off with such nonsense?” the now-retired violinist recalls with a laugh. The top researcher had never heard of Cellini’s iconic goldsmith work, which was made between 1540 and 1543, just like 95 percent of Austrians at the time. That should change soon. Very quickly, in fact.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
