Vittorio Sgarbi has expressed confidence that an ongoing investigation into a painting attributed to the French Caravaggist Valentin de Boulogne will ultimately prove unfounded. The artwork, titled Concerto with Drinker, could be valued at 5.5 million euros if confirmed as genuine, but Sgarbi dismisses the claims surrounding it as pathetic persecution by individuals hoping to find masterpieces in attics or markets.
According to reports from the Imperia prosecutor's office, first highlighted by Fatto Quotidiano and Report, the painting was allegedly illegally exported to Monaco in 2020. The investigation implicated Sgarbi as the true owner, alongside his partner Sabrina Colle and impresario Gianni Filippini. Colle reportedly stated in a WhatsApp conversation that they hoped to sell the work or face financial ruin. Although the inquiry has now been closed, documents include an X-ray from the Central Institute for Restoration suggesting the piece dates back to the 17th century and could be a lost original.
Sgarbi, a former Undersecretary of Culture and current European election candidate with FdI, argues that relying on an X-ray is insufficient proof of authorship. He stated that such examinations cannot definitively attribute a work, comparing it to scanning a Fontana painting. Instead, he insists the piece is a copy, noting that a similar version was recently sold at auction by Wannenes for 3,500 euros.
Regarding his involvement, Sgarbi clarified that he did not purchase the painting; rather, an old friend bought it for 10,000 euros. He explained that illegal export regulations apply only when a work's value exceeds 13,500 euros. Furthermore, he denied issuing a formal appraisal, stating that the document cited as his expertise was merely a technical sheet sent by his office. Sgarbi concluded that since the painting was never sold, the entire matter is moot.
Sources: Corriere della Sera.