Boston museum offers $10M reward for stolen artworks

Thirty-five years after a major art theft, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston is offering a reward of up to $10 million. They are seeking information that could help recover 13 stolen artworks. The theft occurred on March 18, 1990, when thieves disguised as police officers entered the museum. The artworks taken are valued at over $500 million. They include pieces by famous artists such as Rembrandt and Degas. The FBI, which is not involved in the reward offer, believes the stolen art may be spread across different locations worldwide. FBI Special Agent Jodi Cohen highlighted the importance of these pieces to society. She urged the public to help locate the artworks, reminding everyone to familiarize themselves with the stolen items. The museum founder, Isabella Stewart Gardner, created the museum for the public's enjoyment, and the museum hopes to see the artworks returned. The heist involved two criminals who handcuffed museum guards and spent 81 minutes taking the art. One notable piece is a self-portrait by Rembrandt, painted when he was just 23 years old. The museum emphasizes the significance of retrieving these masterpieces for the community. The museum will offer a share of the $10 million reward for any information leading to the return of the stolen art. Tips can be reported to Director of Security Anthony Amore or the FBI's tipline. The public is encouraged to step forward with any information.