FALSEHOOD COSTS £720.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15646, 27 June 1914, Page 2 (Supplement)

FALSEHOOD COSTS £720.

Much excitement is invariably caused when an enterprising art dealer or collector succeeds in passing some precious work of art across tho .Italian frontier in contravention of the Pacca law, which prohibits the exportation of ancient works of art without the consent of the authorities and without the payment of a heavy duty. But little or nothing is said as a rule when the authorities score over their would-be despoilers. An amusing case occurred recently, when an American lady, who had purchased an important picture by a northern Italian master at the price of £740, submitted the picture to Dr. Modigliani, the director of the Brera Gallery, in order to obtain official permission to tako her treasure out of the country. The export duty is based on the declared value, so she explained that she had bought the picture for £20. What the good lady apparently did not know was that tho Government reserve the right of purchase at the declared price. Dr. Modigliani recognised the beauty and importance of the American lady's find, exercised his option. The picture can now be seen at tho Brora Gallery, and the American collector may derive some consolation from her knowledge that she has contributed £720 towards its purchase.