Vincent van Gogh's painting titled "Spring Garden, the Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring" has finally returned to the Groninger Museum after being stolen three and a half years ago. It was taken on March 30, 2020, from the Singer Laren Museum, where it was on loan for an exhibition.
"The Groninger Museum is extremely delighted and relieved that the artwork has returned. It is currently at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. We are deeply grateful to our colleagues in Amsterdam for their hospitality. On behalf of our staff, all Groningers, and visitors, we express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this positive outcome. Arthur Brand played a pivotal role in this case, and the museum greatly appreciates his efforts," stated Andreas Blühm, the director of the Groninger Museum. In 2021, a suspect was already arrested and convicted in connection with the theft. Three and a half years after the theft, the stolen artwork is finally back. The police were closely involved in all phases of the recovery. The museum cannot provide any comments on the ongoing investigation.
In the coming period, the artwork will undergo a thorough examination. The painting has suffered some damage but appears to be in reasonably good condition at first glance. It will undergo scientific analysis in the coming months.
As for when the "Spring Garden" will be on display again in Groningen, the exact date is still uncertain. It could be weeks or months before it is publicly exhibited.
Vincent van Gogh's painting, created in 1884, is an oil on paper on panel. It is the only Van Gogh painting in the Groninger Museum's collection and is considered one of its most valuable treasures. The artwork had been in a private collection in Groningen since the early 20th century and was gifted to the Municipality of Groningen in 1962.