53 Results in the "True Crime" category
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The Art Thief by Michael Finkel tells the true story of Stéphane Breitwieser, a notorious art thief who stole hundreds of priceless pieces across Europe. The book delves into his obsession with art, the personal costs of his crimes, and the fine line between passion and crime.-
810 • Jan 23, '25
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4.0 K • Jan 23, '25
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4.8 K • Jan 23, '25
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Chapter
Chapter 3
Chapter 3 of The Art Thief takes readers deep into the mind of Stéphane Breitwieser, a self-styled connoisseur of art who has justified his numerous thefts not as criminal acts but as a means of curating beauty. Although his actions have made him a notorious figure in the world of art crime, Breitwieser does not consider himself a typical thief. His thefts, carried out with the help of his partner, Anne-Catherine Kleinklaus, are portrayed as a personal mission to collect art that he believes is rightfully…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 8
Chapter 8 of The Art Thief offers a detailed exploration into the world of audacious museum heists, examining the techniques employed by notorious art thieves and their unparalleled ambition. The opening of the chapter highlights the rarity and skill required to successfully pull off three museum heists within a year, a feat that most art thieves would find nearly impossible to accomplish. Among the most well-known art thieves discussed is Vincenzo Peruggia, who gained infamy for his daring theft of the…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 6
Chapter 6 of The Art Thief begins with Breitwieser’s first taste of excitement from committing a theft—this time, a pistol from a museum, which fills him with a potent mix of exhilaration and fear. With Anne-Catherine at his side, the two escape without detection, the scenic drive through the Alsace region offering a brief respite as they process their daring act. The absence of immediate police pursuit leaves them feeling victorious, as if they have outsmarted the authorities. Over the next several…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 7
Chapter 7 of The Art Thief takes us into the early days of March 1995, where Breitwieser and Anne-Catherine, fresh from the success of their recent crossbow theft, embark on a skiing vacation in the Swiss Alps. Their trip is funded by Breitwieser’s grandparents, but the getaway is far from a typical vacation. Instead, it serves as a cover for their ongoing criminal activities, as they plan to make a detour to Gruyères Castle, a historic Swiss fortress turned museum. Upon arrival, they casually purchase…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 9
Chapter 9 of The Art Thief further explores the intricate and carefully structured life of Breitwieser, who continues his passion for art theft with meticulous planning and devotion. While Anne-Catherine carries on with her daily activities and work, Breitwieser spends his time immersed in research at various key locations, such as libraries in Mulhouse and Strasbourg. His deep dive into the art world also includes regular visits to the University of Basel's extensive art-history collection, where he…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 10
Chapter 10 of The Art Thief follows Breitwieser on a memorable and daring adventure, one that intertwines his birthday celebrations with another art heist. On the morning of his twenty-fourth birthday, October 1, 1995, he embarks on a trip to New Castle in Germany, accompanied by his mother, Anne-Catherine, and her dachshund. The scenic drive through the picturesque Black Forest is a stark contrast to the thrill that awaits him. Their destination, the historic Sotheby’s auction preview, is held in a…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 of The Art Thief takes a closer look at Breitwieser’s psychological profile, exploring the underlying factors that drive his art thefts. Diagnosed with narcissistic and antisocial personality disorders, his behavior suggests a deep disconnection from societal norms. Despite undergoing various therapy sessions, including consultations with psychologist Schmidt, Breitwieser remains blind to the consequences of his actions. Schmidt’s analysis reveals that Breitwieser views himself as a kind of…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 14
Chapter 14 delves deeper into the audacious world of art theft, with Breitwieser and Anne-Catherine skillfully navigating the chaos surrounding the prestigious European Fine Art Fair in Maastricht. The normally tranquil event is shaken when a thief is caught and restrained by security, attracting the attention of the onlookers. Richard Green, a prominent art dealer, witnesses the spectacle as the thief is apprehended, but what draws even more attention is the sudden emptiness of Green's booth. In the midst…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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Chapter
Chapter 12
Chapter 12 of The Art Thief opens in the quiet aftermath of an eventful day. Breitwieser, Anne-Catherine, and his mother return to the safe confines of their attic after attending a Sotheby’s auction, where a significant theft has been executed. In the sanctuary of their home, the trio unrolls the auction catalog to examine the stolen piece, Cranach’s Sibylle of Cleves, marveling at its history, beauty, and the intricacies that define it. Breitwieser, with his deep connection to the world of art, feels…-
179.4 K • Ongoing
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