Thieves’ not so Tiny Theft

[Heather]

In broad daylight, a group of thieves posing as tourists, overpowered the one female guard, threatening her with an axe. They plucked the small but largely valuable piece off the staircase wall and exited the building through a window as the alarms sounded and sped away in a waiting Volkswagen outside.

It was one of many pieces of a fine private collection held by a wealthy patron living under the blue and white flag. This particular piece had been in the family for over 250 years.

What was stolen?
Where did this take place?
What city/country is this?
Were the thieves ever caught?
Were the goods ever recovered?
Was the crime solved?

[Heather]

Clue #1 The year was 2003

[Heather]

Clue #2 It was a small painting 48cm. X 36cm. (18 in. X 14 in.) that was stolen

[Heather]

Clue #3 The painting was by Leonardo da Vinci

Nobody wants to ask questions? Guesses? Nobody’s heard of this one?

[Heather]

Clue #4 The painting was said to be worth up to about £30m (does that give you a bit of an indication in about what area of the world this happened? Alright, I'll help you, This took place in Scotland