Gold and enamel miniatures stolen from Devon Guild of Craftsmen

Police are seeking information about a significant theft from the Jubilee Gallery at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen in Bovey Tracey. The popular educational charity and visitor attraction was targeted for an exhibition that contained a small number of unusually high value items.

Police have issued a statement saying:

‘On 5 April 2018 a burglary occurred at Devon Guild of Craftsman, Station Road, Bovey Tracey.  

An unknown person has stolen a piece of art that is shown in the picture.  It is 18 carat gold and measures 128mm x 78mm.   

If you have any information regarding this burglary or know the current whereabouts of this piece of art please contact DC 1352 Hoskin-Cole on 101.’ 

The thief struck between 11.30am and 1.30pm and forced open the top corner of a locked cabinet holding 14 commissioned gold and enamel miniatures. It appears to have been professionally done – the thief reached past 4 other pieces to take the one they wanted, leaving the cabinet looking very passably 

untouched.

Given the nature of the crime and the value of the piece it has been referred to CID, and a forensic specialist has been on site.

The exhibition Made to Commission showcases artists who are commissioned for private and public works and remains open to the public until 7 May, although the enamel miniatures will now only be shown as facsimiles.

Profits from the gallery, shop and café at the venue fund a programme of free family activities, community projects and artist placements in schools and colleges as well as supporting artists developing their creative careers.

Based in Bovey Tracey, Devon Guild is the popular contemporary crafts venue and charity (around 130,000 visitors in 2017) and is the creative hub of the town. With a national reputation and influence, the exhibitions are ground-breaking with related events that are fun, free and open to all.