NCJ Number
88520
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 52 Issue: 3 Dated: special issue (March 1983) Pages: 16-23
Date Published
1983
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The National Stolen Art File (NSAF) at FBI Headquarters is a central repository of data and photographs of art reported stolen by law enforcement agencies as well as art recovered but whose origin or ownership is unknown or questionable.
Abstract
To be included in the NSAF, stolen or recovered art objects must meet certain criteria. An art object is defined as a 'two or three dimensional object that was created by, or created under the direction of, an individual considered by the art community to be an artist or designer.' The NSAF is currently limited to paintings, prints, and sculptures. Only art objects valued at $2,000 or more will be considered for search or entry in the system. Information on a particular art piece is coded for the computer according to a wide range of descriptive items, including dimensions, composition, subject matter, principal colors, signatures, etc. Every effort is made to obtain a photograph or facsimile of the art object. The photograph is placed in the visual section of the system called the microfiche. When requesting a search of a recovered item, a completed Stolen Art Data Sheet should be submitted, ensuring that the 'recovered' block is marked. A photograph of each art object should be attached. The NSAF makes no definite determination as to the positive identification or authenticity of recovered items. It only provides information of possible investigative assistance to the contributing agencies. Any positive identification, including authentication of the questioned items recovered, must be made through the original contributing office. Photographs are provided of some artworks that have been stolen and are still reported missing.