A valuable Pablo Picasso print, missing since 2018, has resurfaced and been returned to its owner after being discovered hanging in a Wisconsin apartment. The artwork, a 1949 "Torero" print signed by the artist, was reportedly found by a landlord cleaning out a vacant unit following tenant eviction.
Bill DeLind, owner of DeLind Fine Art Appraisals in Milwaukee, had reported the print stolen from his gallery in 2018. The piece is one of only 30 signed copies, and its value was estimated between $35,000 and $50,000 at the time of its theft. DeLind told reporters that the disappearance felt like a "personal insult" and that he had not heard any news about it until recently.
The landlord, Tim Dertz, noticed the print while cleaning the apartment. He described it as "covered in tons of dust across the top," indicating it had been in place for a significant period. Dertz showed the artwork to an antique dealer, who recognized it as the stolen Picasso.
Dertz subsequently turned the print over to the police. DeLind expressed gratitude for the honesty of the landlord and the antique dealer, stating it was a welcome contrast to the original theft.
DeLind mentioned that his former business partner would contact the police annually on the anniversary of the theft, hoping for a resolution. He believes his late partner would be overjoyed by the print's return. DeLind estimates the print's value remains close to its original appraisal, likely around $50,000.
