In a brazen daylight heist, four thieves stole historic snuffboxes and other precious artifacts from the Cognacq-Jay Museum in Paris on Wednesday, November 20.
The culprits smashed display cases with axes and baseball bats, targeting items from the museum’s highly acclaimed exhibition, Luxe de poche (“Pocket Luxury”).
The robbery occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. in the Marais district, one of Paris’s most popular tourist areas. The thieves, clad in gloves, hoods, and helmets, carried out their operation in full view of museum visitors.
Despite the chaotic scene, no injuries were reported. However, the thieves successfully made off with “five historic boxes and snuffboxes,” according to sources familiar with the investigation.
Bold Operation Amid High Security
The Cognacq-Jay Museum, housed in an 18th-century mansion, is known for its extensive collection of fine arts and decorative objects from the Enlightenment era.
The Luxe de poche exhibition features an array of opulent items, including gold pieces adorned with precious stones, mother-of-pearl, and miniatures.
Some of these artifacts were on loan from renowned institutions such as the Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, Britain’s Royal Collection, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The stolen artifacts, considered culturally and historically significant, are still being appraised for their monetary value.
“These objects are not only valuable for their material worth but also for their connection to the 18th and early 19th centuries,” a museum spokesperson said.
Investigation Underway
The Paris public prosecutor’s office confirmed an armed robbery investigation involving a criminal gang is underway. The city of Paris has filed a criminal complaint and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.
A statement from the city hall commended museum staff for their “exemplary attitude” during the incident and assured that psychological support would be provided to affected employees.
Authorities are analyzing security footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the perpetrators. The museum, which opened its doors to the public at the time of the heist, has not commented on its security measures.
Exhibition Impact
The Luxe de poche exhibition was scheduled to close on Sunday, November 24. It features intricate items from the Enlightenment period, including snuffboxes crafted from gold and adorned with enamel and miniature paintings.
The museum website describes these artifacts as “small, precious, and sophisticated” representations of the era’s craftsmanship.
The heist raises questions about the security protocols at institutions that house high-value loaned collections. Experts have pointed out that such exhibitions are often targeted by organized criminal groups specializing in cultural artifacts.
International Concern
With items on loan from global institutions, the theft has garnered international attention. A statement from one lending institution expressed “grave concern” over the stolen artifacts and highlighted the challenges of safeguarding such treasures during international exhibitions.
Cultural Loss
While the monetary value of the stolen items is significant, experts emphasize the cultural loss to the public. “These artifacts are irreplaceable windows into history,” said art historian Claire Duroc. “Their theft robs society of its shared heritage.”
The museum remains closed temporarily as investigators continue their search for leads.
