Theft in France: Dalí’s “Apocalypse,” described as the world’s most valuable book, disappears

A new robbery has taken place at an art institution in France. Unidentified individuals entered the Contemporary Art Center in Issoire, in Auvergne, and took “L’Apocalypse.” The monumental work weighs 210 kilograms, is adorned with gold and precious stones, and is valued at several million euros.

The work was once known as “the world’s most valuable book.” Its bronze cover, created by Salvador Dalí, weighs 150 kilograms. Art-book publisher Joseph Forêt commissioned and conceived it in 1959, drawing on the “Book of Revelation” by Saint John.

Seven renowned artists were involved in its creation, including Dalí, Georges Mathieu, Bernard Buffet and Leonor Fini. Seven writers and thinkers, including Jean Cocteau, Emil Cioran and Ernst Jünger, also contributed comments and reflections.

Since 1961, “L’Apocalypse” has been exhibited in various locations around the world. After passing through the hands of several owners, collector Christian Karoutzos bought it in 2002. He has said that he worked seven days a week and needed ten years to pay for it.

The work is valued at several million euros. This summer, after 24 years, Karoutzos decided to exhibit it at his Contemporary Art Center, but just a few months later it was stolen.

French authorities have launched an investigation. “It is a unique work in the world. They have killed French heritage; they have killed France,” the owner said.