Painting of Holbein and Brueghel stolen in 1979 have been found in Germany, 360 television reported referring to Spiegel magazine.

The canvases were stolen 40 years ago from the Friedenstein Castle Museum in the city of Gotha, Thuringia. However, at the end of September 2019, they were found and handed over to the state.

Five paintings were stolen from the Friedenstein Castle Museum on the night of December 14, 1979.

In July 2018, individuals who wished to remain anonymous announced that the stolen paintings belong to them. They reported this to the Friedenstein Castle Foundation through their lawyer. However, they failed to provide convincing evidence of their acquisition. The authorities of Gotha conducted secret talks with the lawyer, during which the lawyer demanded to give EUR 5.25 million to the owners of the objects of art.

A criminal case has been opened later against the lawyer and his client on suspicion of blackmail and concealment. His investigation is being carried out by the German criminal police. Law enforcement officers searched the apartments and offices of the suspects and three witnesses.