In brief
The Maashorst municipality in the Netherlands has revealed that during renovation efforts, 46 artworks, including an Andy Warhol print valued at €15,000, were "most likely" thrown away due to improper storage and handling practices.
In a regrettable incident, the Maashorst municipality of the Netherlands has acknowledged that it likely disposed of 46 artworks, including an Andy Warhol print of Queen Beatrix, during renovation activities last year. The iconic artwork, a silkscreen print from the 1980s, was estimated to be worth approximately €15,000 and formed part of a broader collection valued at €22,000. During the ongoing renovations of the town hall in Uden, it was reported that these artworks were stored inadequately in a basement, without proper guidelines for their care. Mayor Hans van der Pas expressed his dismay at the situation, stating, "That's not how you treat valuables. But it happened. We regret that.” Local media noted that a preliminary investigation discovered several artworks were placed in wheelie bins, leading to their potential accidental disposal.The municipality has indicated that the missing pieces are unlikely to resurface. The report drew attention to systemic failures in the management of these valuable artworks, emphasizing the absence of clear ownership procedures and a comprehensive policy for their safeguarding during the renovation process.Queen Beatrix, who ruled the Netherlands from 1980 until her abdication in 2013, was included in Warhol's series "Reigning Queens," which features portraits of notable monarchs. This series included prints of Queen Elizabeth II and Denmark’s Margrethe II, among others, showcasing Warhol’s distinctive artistic style.Interestingly, in another incident last year, Queen Beatrix's print was among those stolen and later abandoned during a gallery heist, further highlighting the precarious nature of art preservation and security.
