Vittorio Sgarbi Accused of Theft and Alteration of 17th-Century Painting

Vittorio Sgarbi, Italy's Undersecretary of Culture, faces allegations of theft and modification of "Cattura di San Pietro," a 17th-century artwork by Rutilio Manetti. This painting was taken in February 2013 from Castello di Buriasco, owned by Margherita Buzio, with thieves removing it from its frame. Prior to the theft, Paolo Bocedi, a Sgarbi associate, had expressed interest in purchasing it. Although the case was previously closed, it gained attention when the painting was showcased in late 2021 at an exhibition curated by Sgarbi as an undisclosed Manetti piece. Restorer Gianfranco Mingardi asserts that Sgarbi sent him the painting for restoration in spring 2013, acknowledging its stolen status. Sgarbi refutes these claims, stating his artwork originates from a villa in Viterbo. The Imperia Prosecutor's Office is currently investigating the matter for theft and self-laundering of cultural assets.