Berlin, May 7 – A bronze sculpture by the late artist Dorothea Buck (1917-2019) has been stolen from a clinic in Berlin-Mitte, according to a police statement issued today. The artwork, known as “Mother with Child,” was taken from a display case within the facility.
Police Launch Investigation into Clinic Theft
The Berlin police have initiated an investigation into the incident. While details regarding the exact value of the sculpture, the precise location of the theft within the clinic, and the exact timeframe of the crime were not immediately available, authorities are actively seeking information from the public.
A spokesperson for the Berlin police stated, “We are appealing to witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious at the clinic or have any information regarding the whereabouts of the sculpture. We also ask if anyone has been offered this figure for purchase.”
About the Artist: Dorothea Buck and “Mother with Child”
Dorothea Buck, born in Naumburg an der Saale in 1917, was a renowned sculptor. Her life was marked by significant personal challenges; in 1936, she experienced a severe psychological crisis and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. During the Nazi regime, she was deemed “inferior,” institutionalized, and subjected to forced sterilization. Her experiences deeply influenced her artistic work and advocacy for mental health.
The stolen sculpture, “Mother with Child,” is a significant piece by an artist whose work often reflected themes of vulnerability, humanity, and resilience. The loss of such a work is not only a financial blow but also a cultural one.
Witnesses and Public Assistance Crucial
The police are urging anyone with information to contact them directly. They are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who may have been approached to purchase the sculpture, or who noticed unusual activity at the clinic prior to the discovery of the theft.
The theft of artworks from public institutions is a serious concern, and authorities are committed to recovering the sculpture and bringing those responsible to justice. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of securing valuable art pieces, even within seemingly protected environments.
Impact on the Clinic and Community
The clinic, located in the central Berlin-Mitte district, has not released a statement regarding the theft. However, the incident raises questions about security protocols in public and semi-public spaces where valuable artworks are displayed. The loss of the sculpture is also felt by the community, as Buck’s work holds cultural and historical significance.
Authorities have not disclosed whether there was any forced entry or if the theft was an inside job. The investigation is in its early stages, and all leads are being pursued. The police remain hopeful that public assistance will lead to the swift recovery of the “Mother with Child” sculpture.
