Guest Lectures
Presented by Dick Ellis on 10 September 2021
The theft of a major work of art never fails to make the headlines, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by owners, curators and the art loving public. The finger of suspicion is pointed at the mythical billionaire collector whose desire to possess the painting far outruns any sense of morality or respect for the law. Join former head of Scotland Yard's Art Squad, Dick Ellis, who will discuss his famous cases and recoveries including Edvard Munch’s “The Scream” and expose the real motives and trends in cultural property crime.
Dick Ellis is an internationally recognised art crime investigator with over 30 years’ experience. He founded and ran the Art & Antiques Squad at Scotland Yard and served as General Manager of Christie’s Fine Art Security Services. His many recoveries include Edvard Munch’s “The Scream”, Audubon’s “Birds of America” and over 7,000 antiquities looted from China and Egypt. He is an Expert Advisor to the British Government on International Loans to Museums.