Gang of thieves raid Cotswold Arts and Craft Museum
Gang of thieves raid Cotswold Arts and Craft Museum
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A gang of thieves launched a raid on the award-winning Court Barn Arts and Craft Museum and in what looks to be a premeditated crime, took off with a number of silver pieces dating back to 1900.
The items taken range from pieces by architect and designer Charles Robert Ashbee (1863-1942), Hart Silversmiths who joined Ashbee in Campden in 1902 and who still make silver today and designer Robert Welch (1929-2000).
They include a silver pendant in the form of a butterfly with wings of enamel and a blue enamel pendant, c1902.
The Museum opened in 2007 to preserve and promote the work of artists, designers and craftspeople working in the north Cotswolds and in 10 years from gone from a run down and disused barn to an award winning attraction.
Curator Sarah McCormick Healy said: “This is heartbreaking news for the Museum, the pieces taken were all made by hand, and mainly to commission. They formed an important part of the story we tell at the Museum. They are unique.
"We have been overwhelmed by the goodwill and support we have received from our lenders, donors and our visitors. Whilst there will be the inevitable disruption, all of us at the Museum, staff, trustees and volunteers, are striving to ensure our reputation continues to thrive.”
If you have any information regarding the robbery please contact Gloucestershire Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 111 of 1 August 2017.
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