When expensive, sometimes irreplaceable art is stolen the story is usually about the method of the thieves and not the actual art. From what appears to be a small amount of art admirers around the world, art heists are common in those circles and the owners can feel the loss of their prized possessions. Art thieves make a lot of money from the items they steal, so they must be skilled just like a doctor or a lawyer.
Understanding why someone would steal a priceless painting under such risky circumstances is basic economics. If a thief takes something, there is more than likely a high market value for the item. Although it is common knowledge among art lovers that the art is usually undervalued monetarily, thieves still take the chance to make a 100% profit. Art’s market value correlates to the unusual market visual art occupies. Most individuals who buy expensive, one of a kind paintings of Van Gogh or Rembrandt usually have more money than thy know what do to do with and buy to enhance the status in their social circles. Stealing one of a kind pieces can also be an enhancement to the status of the thieves in their social circles, which is why the game continues to be played.
An art heist is not worth participating in if the thieves are just looking for a thrill. The thieves are most likely approached by buyers who want a specific painting or artist’s work. Those who pay a thief to steal a painting that cannot be sold or even displayed are criminals with the appreciation for fine art. Although the market value of most paintings is undervalued, many across the world adore art. The value of art to the individual is much higher, which is why wealthy people pay much more than the market suggests. From an economical standpoint, money being circulated in is good unless it is stimulating the black market.