Zurich collector returns Pompeii Fresco
A Zurich art collector has returned a fresco missing from Pompeii since 1947 to the authorities in the Italian city of Naples.
A Zurich art collector has returned a fresco missing from Pompeii since 1947 to the authorities in the Italian city of Naples.
The fresco, a peacock against a yellow background, was located three years ago by an Italian curator who noticed a reference to it in a Swiss art catalogue. It is believed to date back to between 63 and 79 AD.
It is not known how the fresco disappeared and the authorities say there is no evidence that it was stolen. It was apparently bought by the collector some 40 years ago.
The return of the fresco to Pompeii, where it will be exhibited, follows talks between the Zurich cantonal authorities and the Italian Ministry of Culture.
From staff and wire reports
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